Medics call for triple testing as they expect surge in winter viruses alongside Covid
A surge in flu and other respiratory viruses could put pressure on the NHS and people’s health this autumn, medics have warned.
The Academy of Medical Sciences calls in a report today for testing on flu, Covid, and RSV, which may help doctors treat cases more quickly.
Due to the lockdown, the UK population was hardly exposed to the viruses that circulate in normal times. However, they may return as society opens up, the medical group warned. There has already been a rise in winter viruses in children coming to A&E, it added.
Professor Azra Ghani of Imperial College London and the report author said her model suggests a summer peak of Covid-19 infections “with subsequent local outbreaks over winter.”
She added that ”we could see hospital admissions rise to similar levels.”
Triple tests
The report suggested the idea of triple tests for winter viruses as they largely produce similar symptoms.
The tests could be done through test and trace or in GP practices. The turnaround would need to be fast so that flu in the most vulnerable can be treated.
Booster Covid vaccines alongside flu vaccines were also recommended this autumn to reduce the spread of the virus.
Currently, two-thirds of UK adults have received two doses and 87 per cent have had one.