The health secretary has warned that cases of influenza could soar this winter, as a result of strict coronavirus measures that reduced the number of cases during the 2020-21 season. Mr Javid urged Britons to take up the flu vaccine, as it will play a key role in dramatically reducing the number of infections during the colder months. The message comes as experts have warned Britain could face a “twindemic” of viruses this winter, as influenza and COVID-19 collide.
Experts had previously warned that vaccination against the flu is paramount this year, as immune defences against influenza could be weakened.
What’s more, research has shown that contracting the flu and COVID-19 could cause serious illness.
An entry on the Government’s website reads: “You don’t need to wait to be invited to have your vaccine.
“If you are eligible you can make an appointment at your GP surgery or ask any pharmacy that provides the NHS service.”
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The warning comes as public health officials have called for social restrictions to be reimplemented after a total of 40,000 coronavirus cases were recorded for the eighth consecutive day in the UK.
A further 223 death were recorded on Wednesday, but the health secretary said the Government will not yet introduce its “Plan B” contingency plan.
Mr Javid said the best way to alleviate pressure on the NHS this winter is by getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza.
“Please take this huge step to protect yourself and to protect your loved ones,” said the health secretary.
During the Covid briefing, the health secretary also warned that new Covid cases could rise to 100,000 a day.
Mr Javid explained the Government’s primary focus was on getting unvaccinated Britons to come forward for their boosters in a bid to increase immune defences ahead of winter.
He warned that if people fail “to do their bit”, restrictions will be “more likely” in the future.
He told the Downing Street press conference: “I think it’s been really clear that we’ve all got a role to play.”
“If not enough people get their booster jabs… if the unvaccinated don’t come forward, if people don’t wear masks in a really crowded place, if they’re not washing their hands, it’s going to his us all.
“It will of course make it more likely we are going to have more restrictions. We want to avoid those.”
Elsewhere in his speech, the Sajid Javid announced the Government has secured deals for two antiviral drugs to provide treatment for Covid-19.
He added: “With winter ahead, we can’t blow it now. Maintain our lead, but strengthen our vaccination programme.”