A top pharmacist has warned that four Victorian-era illnesses are making a modern-day comeback. Rachel Jones, Pharmacy Superintendent at Superdrug, said various factors were contributing, including cost-of-living pressures. She also said one condition associated with years gone by was still common in the UK.
Measles
Rachel said: “Measles is often thought of as a disease of the past, but it remains highly contagious and can spread very quickly where vaccination rates are lower.” The UK lost its measles elimination status at the start of this year, underlining how the illness is clearly not a thing of the past and remains a serious public health concern today.
Rachel said: “Early symptoms such as a high temperature, cough, runny nose and sore eyes can easily be mistaken for other viral illnesses, so it’s important to seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or there is any uncertainty.
“Vaccination has been one of the most effective public health measures in history and remains key to preventing measles. The best way to protect yourself and others is through the MMR vaccine, which provides long-term immunity and is suitable for both adults and children. Two doses are recommended for full protection. Superdrug’s nationwide high street clinics offer the MMR vaccination service for £45 per dose.”
Yellow fever
Rachel said: “Yellow fever is often associated with historical outbreaks, but it is still present in parts of the world today. While it isn’t found in the UK, international travel means it remains an important health consideration for those visiting at-risk regions.”
“Symptoms can range from fever, headache and muscle pain to more serious complications in severe cases, which is why seeking travel health advice ahead of travelling is so important. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against yellow fever and many countries require proof of vaccination for entry.”
Scurvy
Rachel said: “Scurvy is a disease caused by a vitamin C deficiency and is most famously associated with British sailors in the 18th and 19th centuries who didn’t have access to fresh food during long voyages. While it’s considered rare in developed countries, it hasn’t disappeared entirely.
People with limited access to fresh fruit and vegetables or poor dietary habits can still be affected and with the current cost-of-living crisis, it has become a modern-day concern for many. Early symptoms can be subtle and are often mistaken for other conditions. Common signs include fatigue and weakness, swollen or bleeding gums, joint pain, easy bruising and slow wound healing.
“The best way to prevent scurvy is by ensuring adequate vitamin C intake through diet, but supplements can be a useful option for those who struggle to meet their needs through food alone.”
Gout
Rachel said: “Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that is often associated with Victorian Britain, but it remains a common condition in the UK today. It typically presents as sudden and severe joint pain, most commonly affecting the big toe, but it can also impact the knees, wrists, elbows and fingers.”
She added: “Other symptoms include swelling, redness, tenderness and a reduced range of motion in the affected joint. Several factors can increase the risk of developing gout, including genetics, obesity, dehydration and consuming a diet high in purine-rich foods such as red meat and alcohol.
These can raise uric acid levels in the body, which may then form crystals around the joints and cause the pain associated with gout. Modern tools, such as Superdrug Online Doctor’s Gout Uric Acid Test, can help people better understand their uric acid levels from the comfort of their own home and decide when to seek medical advice.”
