A combination of Covid-19, influenza, and the respiratory virus Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) could push an already depleted health service to breaking point unless action is taken now, the Academy of Medical Sciences said in a report published on Wednesday.
NHS leaders and health officials fear there is a realistic possibility 60,000 people could die from flu this winter, as the government renewed calls for people to get vaccinated against the influenza virus as soon as possible.
Cases of coronavirus, flu and other respiratory infections are likely to surge in the months ahead, experts say, culminating in increased hospitalisations and rising pressure on health services across England.
Hence, it seems that the flu season could be particularly deadly this year if left unchecked, but a series of measures could help mitigate the risks, including an enhanced flu jab programme and rapid tests for flu, the experts said. People who are sick should “stay out of the way” to avoid spreading flu and other winter viruses and stop the annual pressure put on the NHS.
