Urgent warning as doctor claims 'you can catch all 3 Tripledemic viruses at same time'

A 'Tripledemic' refers to side-by-side outbreaks of three respiratory illnesses occurring over the autumn and winter months - and can put increased pressure on the health system

Brits are being urged to take all the necessary precautions this winter after a doctor claimed there is a risk of catching three different viruses at the same time.

Health experts have warned of a deadly "Tripledemic" - a combination of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Covid-19 and flu - as temperatures dip over the coming weeks and months. The combination of these virus could prove particularly dangerous for elderly and vulnerable people, putting pressure on the NHS.

The warning comes just weeks after NHS chiefs urged people to book their winter vaccines ahead of what's expected to be a "challenging" winter. NHS vaccine chief Michelle Kane said last month: "Vaccination is a vital part of our preparations for what's expected to be another challenging winter.

"There are concerns about a potential 'tripledemic' of RSV, Covid-19 and flu during an already busy period. Vaccines help protect people — and those around them — so I would urge everyone eligible to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV jabs booked." She added: "Booking is simple either online, via the NHS App or by calling 119."

Further explaining the risks of a "Tripledemic", Dr Chun Tang told the Independent: "A 'Tripledemic' refers to side-by-side outbreaks of three respiratory illnesses, typically occurring during the autumn and winter seasons. In recent years, it' been used to describe the simultaneous spread of Covid-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

"Each of these viruses can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems." The GP added: "It is of particular concern now because, as these viruses circulate together, they can put pressure on the NHS due to a greater influx of patients."

Dr Tang noted that since RSV, flu and Covid share many overlapping symptoms - such as fever, cough, runny nose and fatigue - they are often difficult to distinguish. However, he said that there are some key differences to look out for, such as the fact that Covid-19 may lead to a loss of taste or smell and more frequent breathing difficulties.

He said RSV can lead to wheezing and is more likely to affect infants, while the flu "tends to hit quickly with sudden fever and body aches." He urged anyone who is unsure about their illness to get tested to confirm which virus is responsible. Dr Tang said that it is possible to contract all the viruses together, which can "increase the severity of illness and make it harder for the body to recover, especially for those with weakened immune systems or existing health conditions."

Dr Tang said the people most vulnerable to severe illness from a Tripledemic include young children, older adults and those with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or weakened immune system. And he said that babies under the age of one, especially those born prematurely, are at higher risk of RSV, while older adults and people with chronic conditions could face more serious complications from Covid-19.