Fears UK facing 'quadrupledemic' as highly contagious 'superbug' sweeps across country

A family GP has warned that the UK faces the risk of a ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter as waves of four major conditions could strike at the same.

Cases of the highly contagious norovirus, with suffering Brits moaning it's the "worst they've ever felt".

It comes as new variant continues to spread across the country. Seasonal illnesses like the flu and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are also expected to rise as winter approaches. There are now fears that Britain and the could face a battle against the four illnesses at the same time this winter.

GP Dr Roger Henderson, who works with , told the : “There is a risk that we could see a ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter, with COVID-19, flu, RSV, and a new superbug – the highly contagious norovirus – all in circulation. When these infections overlap, they pose a heightened risk, especially for the elderly, young children, and people with existing health issues.”

As to what measures people can take and the symptoms to look out for, Dr Roger recommended basic hygiene measures and being aware of the first symptoms so treatment can be started.

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He said: "Practising good hygiene and being prepared for winter bugs are essential. Being mindful of symptoms, such as high fever, chills, breathing difficulties or severe coughing can help you identify illnesses early.

“Handwashing remains the most important way to reduce the spread of winter bugs, so people should always wash their hands after coughing, sneezing or wiping their nose, and after being in direct contact with someone who is ill.”

Dr Roger isn’t the only expert to warn about the threat of norovirus triggering a quadrupledemic this winter. Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist for , also highlighted the dangers of an acute norovirus infection.

She spoke about the main symptoms of the virus and echoed Dr Roger’s thoughts that a quadrupledemic was a “real” possibility for the UK.

Carolina told the Mirror: “The risk of a ‘quadrupledemic’ is quite real for some individuals. Concurrent outbreaks of Covid-19, flu, RSV and norovirus during the colder months can trigger back-to-back illness and may be exacerbated by seasonal factors, increased indoor gatherings (causing viral transmission) and weak immune systems in some individuals.

“Dehydration is one of the most serious risks associated with norovirus. Warning signs include dizziness, confusion, reduced urination or dark urine. These symptoms require immediate medical attention to avoid further complications.”

In common with Dr Roger, Carolina highlighted that prevention was “advisable” and recommended “to follow rigorous hygiene practices, such as using masks, washing hands thoroughly or carrying and using a hand sanitiser”.

Whilst the thought of a norovirus infection and illness can be a scary possibility for many, Carolina said that most healthy people “recover from norovirus within one to three days, but it can be more dangerous for vulnerable groups, such as young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems”.