BBC Doctor Xand van Tulleken shares 'must do' advice amid 'tripledemic' fears
by https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/authors/lauren-haughey/, Lauren Haughey · Daily RecordGet the latest Daily Record breaking news on WhatsApp
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TV doctor Dr Xand van Tulleken has cleared up confusion among the public about various vaccinations as fears of a 'tripledemic' loom over the UK. Speaking on BBC Morning Live, he responded to a viewer's query: if you've had the Covid and flu jab, do you need an RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) shot too?
Dr Xand highlighted that RSV vaccines are advised for pregnant adults and those aged 75 to 79. If you turned 80 on or after September 1, 2024, you're eligible for the RSV vaccine until 31 August 2025 too, according to the NHS.
However, he pointed out that one jab doesn't protect against multiple illnesses. If you've received a Covid jab, it'll protect you against Covid only. "What I would say, it's a great question because when I saw this question I was like: 'Oh, I wonder which of the jabs I'd sort of rather have'," he said to the show's presenters.
"Then you sort of think 'hang on a minute', all these viruses can be life-threatening, they can have long, long, long consequences not just for you but of course for the people you might infect. And so, you should have all of them, they're all different and one vaccination protects you against that particular virus.
"So, if you've had a Covid vaccination that will protect you against Covid but it won't protect you against RSV. You need all three really is what I'd say, the other thing I'd say is, getting them way easier than you'd think."
Despite this, it's important to note that some vaccinations are only recommended for specific groups of people at an increased risk of illness. For Covid jabs, the NHS currently recommends that anyone over 65, pregnant individuals and older adults in care homes should receive the jab.
Anyone 'aged six months to 64 years and have an increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 because of a health condition or treatment' are advised to take the jab as well. Meanwhile, flu vaccines are also recommended for the following people:
- are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2025)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Dr Xand's views come amidst rising concern over a 'tripledemic' this winter, as cases of people catching Covid, flu and RSV are set to rise. Just one month ago, Brits were also warned of a new 'XEC Covid variant', with a sore throat, cough, fever and nausea among its most common symptoms, according to US-based scientists.
Although the UKHSA Deputy Director, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, previously told the Express that it's 'normal and expected for viruses to genetically change over time', scientists have raised concerns about the number of cases.
If you're eager to arrange a Covid jab, it's straightforward: simply dial 119 or visit the NHS website to book. You might also be able to get your flu shot during the same visit if you qualify.
Invitations to take an RSV jab are often issued by GP surgeries. NHS England suggests that individuals 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."
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