"we see many dangerous viruses circulating"
Four illnesses are circulating in the UK this winter, in what has been dubbed the “quad-demic”.
The four illnesses are flu, Covid-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and norovirus.
The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) is currently monitoring the activity levels of all four, which peak throughout winter.
The risk and complication rate of people catching all four illnesses at once heightens during winter, hence the term “quad-demic”.
Weekly figures released by the UKHSA showed increased flu, RSV, and norovirus cases.
Covid-19 was the only one where levels remained stable, but this could change.
Here is how to protect yourself from the “quad-demic”.
What Symptoms to Look Out For?
According to the NHS, flu, Covid-19, RSV, and norovirus may seem similar but can have different symptoms.
Symptoms of flu can come on very quickly and include a sudden high temperature, aching body, dry cough, sore throat, headache and exhaustion.
UKHSA data shows that over the past two winters (2022-2023 and 2023-2024), at least 18,000 deaths were associated with flu. This is despite last winter being a relatively mild flu season.
The flu can also worsen chronic medical problems, trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body, and lead to sepsis.
A high temperature, loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, exhaustion, or a new continuous cough could mean you have Covid-19.
While testing for Covid-19 is no longer required, many people choose to do so to reduce their risk of passing it on to others.
According to data released by the UKHSA, cases of RSV are rising, particularly amongst those aged five and under.
RSV symptoms typically start within a few days of infection, including a runny or blocked nose, cough, sneezing, high temperature and tiredness. RSV has the potential to cause more severe problems, such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, can cause nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, headache, aching limbs, and high temperatures.
The winter vomiting bug is highly unpleasant. However, most people recover in two to three days with plenty of rest and fluids. It’s the one you have to ride out.
How do you Stop the Spread if you are Ill?
Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent the spread of germs. The NHS recommends avoiding close contact with others if you are ill.
If you have diarrhoea or vomiting, the NHS says not to return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
Regarding norovirus, the NHS recommends staying home, avoiding visiting hospitals and care homes and not preparing food for others.
In September 2024, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director of Immunisation, stressed:
“As winter approaches, we see many dangerous viruses circulating in our communities, including flu, which tragically can kill thousands of people every year.
“Getting vaccinated ahead of winter is by far your best defence.
“If you’re pregnant or have certain long-term health conditions, you are at greater risk of getting seriously ill.
“Older people and young infants with flu are also much more likely to get hospitalised.”
“So if you or your child are offered the flu, Covid-19 or RSV vaccines, don’t delay in getting them. Please speak to your nurse or doctor if you have any concerns.”
Many doctors continue to stress the need to vaccinate. Concerns over the quad-demic have circulated for some time. Nevertheless, not everyone likes the idea of getting vaccines.
Birmingham resident Shabana told DESIblitz:
“I’m a mum. I am going to be careful but not going to fall into all the fear-mongering going on.
“I’ve decided against any jabs, but I have friends who have had some jabs. Each of us must make the best decisions for ourselves and our family once we have all the necessary information.
“I’m focusing on eating well, drinking plenty of water, getting good rest, and getting my vitamin boosts.
“Focusing on the same for my kids and keeping away from people I know are sick.”
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