BBC Morning Live expert Dr Xand gives urgent advice as Covid cases rise

Dr Xand van Tulleken has addressed public confusion surrounding different types of vaccination, amid fears of a "tripledemic" in the UK

TV doc Dr Xand van Tulleken has cleared up the public's vaccine confusion as fears of a "tripledemic" grip the UK. Speaking on BBC Morning Live, he tackled a viewer's burning question: if you've had the Covid and flu jab, should you get an RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) shot too?

Dr Xand highlighted that RSV vaccines are advised for pregnant women and those aged 75 to 79. If your 80th birthday falls on or after 1 September 2024, you're in line for the RSV vaccine until 31 August 2025, per NHS guidance. However, he pointed out that one jab doesn't shield you from multiple bugs. A Covid jab only fends off Covid.

He explained: "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 shared with the hosts. "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."

Dr Xand said: "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."

However, it's worth noting that some vaccinations are only recommended for specific groups of people at increased risk of illness. The NHS recommends that anyone over 65, pregnant individuals, and older adults in care homes should receive the Covid jab.

Additionally, anyone aged six months to 64 years with a health condition or treatment that increases their risk of getting seriously ill from Covid-19 is advised to take the jab. Flu vaccines are also recommended for certain groups. Dr Xand's comments come amidst concerns over a 'tripledemic' this winter, with cases of Covid, flu, and RSV set to rise. Recently, Brits were warned of a new 'XEC Covid variant' with symptoms including sore throat, cough, fever, and nausea.

While the UKHSA Deputy Director, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, said 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 get your Covid jab sorted, it's a breeze to book an appointment.

Just give a ring to 119 or hop onto the NHS website to arrange it. And if you're up for it, you might snag a flu shot at the same time, provided you tick the eligibility box.

For those awaiting the RSV jab, keep an eye on your letterbox as GP surgeries will be sending out invites. NHS England advises to hang tight for that invite, but they also spill the beans: "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."

They add a nudge, "When you are offered an appointment, it's important you get vaccinated as soon as you can, ahead of the colder months."