England's Chief Medical Officer, Sir Chris Whitty, has issued an urgent public health appeal, identifying the next two weeks as a 'crucial fortnight' for people to protect themselves and avoid serious illness over the Christmas period.
The Looming Threat of Winter Infections
Speaking at a media briefing, Sir Chris, who became a household figure during the Covid-19 pandemic, warned that common seasonal viruses are rising sharply. He emphasised that infections such as flu, Covid-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and others can have devastating consequences for older adults, extending far beyond the initial illness.
His annual report on public health in England details how these infections can significantly increase an older person's risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke, and may even contribute to the development of dementia. The risk of a stroke is notably elevated in the two weeks following an infection and can remain higher for up to a year.
NHS Braces for Record Flu Hospitalisations
The warning comes as the NHS prepares for unprecedented pressure. Sir Jim Mackey, Chief Executive of NHS England, revealed at a board meeting on Thursday 4th December that flu is expected to hospitalise between 5,000 and 8,000 patients daily by next week. This would surpass the previous peak of 5,408 daily admissions recorded in January.
Britain is facing its worst flu season on record, driven by a more aggressive strain known as H3N2, which is causing severe illness even in otherwise healthy individuals. This surge coincides with increasing cases of other respiratory viruses, creating a perfect storm for health services.
Practical Steps for Protection
Professor Whitty outlined clear, practical measures that older people and their families can take to reduce risk during this critical period:
- Prioritise vaccination: Getting jabbed against flu, Covid-19, and RSV now is essential, as immunity takes a few weeks to build. This ensures maximum protection for Christmas gatherings.
- Maintain rigorous hygiene: Regular hand washing and careful food preparation are key to stopping the spread of germs within families.
- Be mindful of visitors: People who have recently been ill should avoid visiting elderly relatives until they are completely clear of symptoms.
- Take infections seriously: Any infection in an older person should be treated with caution and proper medical attention.
Dr Thomas Waite, England's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, reinforced the message, stating: "This is the absolute best time to go out and get vaccinated... By Christmas you will be well protected and it will much reduce that risk of taking infection to elderly relatives."
Professor Julian Redhead, NHS England's Medical Director for Urgent and Emergency Care, added his voice to the call, urging all eligible individuals to come forward for their flu jab to secure immunity by Christmas Day.
Sir Chris Whitty concluded with a stark reminder: "The great majority of deaths from infections are now in older adults. Infections can also cause strokes, heart attacks and reduce quality of life and independence in older people. We need to be much more systematic about preventing infections in older adults." The message is clear: action in this crucial fortnight is vital for a safer, healthier Christmas.
