Symptoms to spot following ‘quadrupledemic’ fears in the UK

A medical professional has detailed the risk of a ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter, as four major illnesses grip the UK. Coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), flu and norovirus are the bugs causing concern, with the latter experiencing a shocking surge that is double the usual outbreak level expected for this season.

Just two months ago, experts also raised alarm bells about a new ‘XEC Covid variant’ amid a startling number of cases. Although UKHSA Deputy Director, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, previously told the Express that it’s ‘normal and expected for viruses to genetically change over time’, scientists also warned that its impact was only ‘just getting started’.

But what does this mean for you? Dr Gareth Nye, a Senior Lecturer at Chester Medical School (@dr.gareth.nye), gave us an exclusive rundown on what to look out for in the colder months.

Are cases rising and is this normal?

Dr Nye recognised that a specific virus poses a significant risk to over-65s and vulnerable individuals, but he suggested that an ‘increase in illness’ is normal during the winter season. He explained: “We would normally expect cases to rise in the colder months than summer months because people spend more time indoors in addition to school returning which allows for diseases to spread more easily.

“However, only norovirus is currently a concern as there is a huge increase in people over 65 contracting the disease. The other three remain at levels in line with expectations, with Coronavirus hospitalisation rates actually dropping slightly.

“We continue to see trends of increased spread of infections year on year which does seem to be linked to pressures to remain in work due to financial strains and this year particularly I can see the stricter rules around children attendance in school playing havoc for infection rates.”

How can you tell the difference between coronavirus, RSV, flu and norovirus?

Unlike coronavirus, the norovirus is famously known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’. The NHS explains that it’s most common symptoms are vomiting and diarrhoea which usually last for around two days.

On the flipside, distinguishing between coronavirus, flu and RSV is a little more difficult. Dr Nye suggested that testing is the only way to know for sure.

He summarised: “Norovirus has a very particular range of symptoms with vomiting, sickness and diarrhoea being present. Coronavirus, RSV and flu have overlapping symptoms, having the tell-tale loss of smell and taste. Without testing, however, it is incredibly difficult to say for certain which of these three infections you have.”

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According to the NHS, typical symptoms of coronavirus may include:

High temperature and/or shivering
Body aching
Fatigue or exhaustion
Headaches
New, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
Loss or change in smell or taste
Sore throat
Shortness of breath
Blocked or runny nose
Diarrhoea
Nausea
Loss of appetite

Norovirus symptoms may include:

Nausea
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Potential for high temperature
Aching legs and arms
Headaches

RSV symptoms may include:

Shivering and high temperatures
Sneezing
Exhaustion/tiredness
Runny or blocked nose
Cough
Babies with RSV may also feed less than usual and seem more irritable

Flu symptoms may include:

Nausea and vomiting
Sore throat
Dry cough
Headaches
Exhaustion and fatigue
Body aches
High temperature
Stomach pain or diarrhoea
Sleeping problems
Children may also get ear pain

Is there anything to be worried about?

Crucially, Dr Nye warned that highly vulnerable individuals, including babies and older people, are most at risk to the ‘quadrupledemic’ illnesses. On a personal note, he explained: “It’s particularly concerning for me as I have child who is more vulnerable and the pressures to keep children in school is likely going to lead to very serious consequences.

“The advice is always the same: if you feel unwell you should remain isolated as much as possible. Masks remain a very good method of preventing further infections. Vaccines for flu and coronavirus can help those people more vulnerable and should always be taken when offered.”

If you’re eager to secure a coronavirus jab appointment, you can do so by dialling 119 or online via the NHS website. You might also be offered a flu vaccination at the same time if you qualify.

GP surgeries typically issue invitations for an RSV jab. NHS England advises individuals to wait until they are contacted. However, it adds: “Some community pharmacies in the East of England will also offer RSV vaccinations later this month. You can check if there will be pharmacy appointments in your local area at www.nhs.uk/book-rsv. Please note, pharmacy bookings are not currently available.

“When you are offered an appointment, it’s important you get vaccinated as soon as you can, ahead of the colder months.”