The UK is grappling with a “quad-demic” as four viruses surge across the country, just weeks after top officials issued Covid-era warnings.
The adenovirus, HMPV, parainfluenza, and rhinovirus have all seen a significant increase in cases, according to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Each of these viruses can cause serious health complications, and two – HMPV and rhinovirus – can be fatal if not treated.
The most recent figures from the UKHSA reveal that one of the deadliest viruses for vulnerable Brits is now the most widespread.
In just one week, from February 3 to 9, rates of rhinovirus – which can lead to lethal pneumonia in those with weakened immune systems – rose from 10.1% to 11.6%. This 1.5% increase is the largest among the four viruses.
Adenovirus positivity rates also saw an increase, rising by 0.6% from 3.6% to 4.2%.
Parainfluenza positivity rates experienced a similar rise, with the UKHSA reporting an increase of 0.6% from 0.9% to 1.5% during the same period.
HMPV cases have seen a slight uptick, rising from 4.2% to 4.5%, marking a 0.3% increase.
This comes amidst the growing prevalence of the dreaded norovirus, which has firmly established its presence in the UK, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The agency’s recent data reveals an “unusual” strain of the bug, known for causing severe dehydration, has seen a 22.6 percent surge in cases compared to a “five-season average”.
The UKHSA stated: “While some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the increased use of PCR multiplex technology (capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test), it is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed rise.”
Norovirus triggers a host of unpleasant symptoms such as vomiting, fever, diarrhoea, muscle aches, and chills.
These alarming figures come on the heels of a warning issued by a top UK official, urging Brits to consider donning a mask if they begin to feel unwell, particularly if they exhibit respiratory symptoms.
Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, told the Daily Star: “There are many viruses in circulation at the moment, including flu – if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and you need to go out, our advice continues to be that you should consider wearing a face mask.”
