Professor Sir Chris Whitty, England's chief medical officer, has called for infections in older people to be taken 'much more seriously', arguing that the elderly are 'under-served' in terms of care and research. In his annual report focusing on infections, he said doctors should have a lower threshold for prescribing antibiotics to older adults compared to younger ones, given the higher risk of sepsis.
Sir Chris criticised a historical 'nihilistic' attitude towards infections in the elderly, noting that many assume such illnesses are inevitable in old age. He stressed that infections can be prevented and treated, and urged older people to adopt protective measures such as hand washing, careful food preparation, and accepting NHS vaccinations.
Data shows that people over 70 are more likely to contract infections, become severely ill, and die. Sir Chris highlighted that while infection prevention is systematic for children and young adults, it is often 'hit and miss' for older adults. Research into infections in the elderly is proportionally much smaller than its importance warrants, he added.
Deaths from infections are 'overwhelmingly dominated by older adults', and with an ageing population, the problem will worsen. Sir Chris pointed to flu as a current example, noting that rising flu cases are putting significant pressure on the NHS and particularly affecting the elderly. He also cited 'clear evidence' that infections increase the risk of stroke, especially in the first two weeks, and possibly heart attacks.
Sir Chris recommended that severe infections in older patients should prompt a review of all risk factors to reduce stroke and heart attack risk. He cautioned against blanket antibiotic rules across all ages, as the risk-benefit balance favours treatment in older people. However, he warned against over-prescribing antibiotics for viral infections to combat drug resistance.
The report also covered vaccine uptake among children and pregnant women, and planning for future pandemics. Sir Chris praised childhood vaccines but noted that uptake is 'drifting down a bit'. He emphasised the importance of reducing infection risks through common-sense measures and maintaining good cardiovascular health.
