A GP has warned ‘quadrupledemic’ could hit the UK as four illnesses threaten to hit at the same time.
Between September 23 and October 6, norovirus cases across the country were up 29 percent and sufferers have claimed it’s the “worst they’ve ever felt”.
Meanwhile, the new Covid variant XEC continues to be prevalent while seasonal illnesses like flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are expected to increase as usual over the winter months.
Dr Roger Henderson, a GP collaborating with Olbas, warned the Mirror of the escalating health crisis: “There is a risk that we could see a ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter, with COVID-19, flu, RSV, and a new superbug – the highly contagious norovirus – all in circulation.
“When these infections overlap, they pose a heightened risk, especially for the elderly, young children, and people with existing health issues.”
Dr Roger advised prioritising hygiene, naming some winter bug symptoms as high fever, chills, breathing difficulties or severe coughing.
He explained: “Handwashing remains the most important way to reduce the spread of winter bugs, so people should always wash their hands after coughing, sneezing or wiping their nose, and after being in direct contact with someone who is ill.”
Dr Roger isn’t alone in his warning about the threat of a quadrupledemic this winter. Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist for Pharmica, also emphasised the dangers of an acute norovirus infection.
She outlined the main symptoms of the virus and echoed Dr Roger’s thoughts that a quadrupledemic was a “real” possibility for the UK.
Speaking to the Mirror, Carolina said: “The risk of a ‘quadrupledemic’ is quite real for some individuals. Concurrent outbreaks of Covid-19, flu, RSV and norovirus during the colder months can trigger back-to-back illness and may be exacerbated by seasonal factors, increased indoor gatherings (causing viral transmission) and weak immune systems in some individuals.
“Dehydration is one of the most serious risks associated with norovirus. Warning signs include dizziness, confusion, reduced urination or dark urine. These symptoms require immediate medical attention to avoid further complications.”
Like Dr Roger, Carolina stressed that prevention was “advisable” and recommended “to follow rigorous hygiene practices, such as using masks, washing hands thoroughly or carrying and using a hand sanitiser”.
While the prospect of contracting norovirus can be daunting for many, Carolina reassured that most healthy individuals “recover from norovirus within one to three days, but it can be more dangerous for vulnerable groups, such as young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems”.