SameDayDoctor has been interviewed on several occasions by the brand new TV channel GB News. We have been asked our opinions about the likelihood of a flu epidemic next winter and also whether travel restrictions are too draconian for UK-vaccinated people travelling in and out of the UK.
PCR Test Requirements for Vaccinated Travellers
We believe that although there is a third wave of the delta variant of COVID-19 in the UK, as 80% of the population has antibodies from previous infection or vaccination, we should be able to reduce the requirement for vaccinated and immune people to do PCR tests for traval. At present, if one is travelling to and from an Amber List country, five PCR tests are required per person travelling, which requires a great deal of organisation and some considerable cost.
Protection and Immunity Against Flu and COVID-19
Furthermore, there is no evidence that a flu epidemic is likely next winter. Although people have been isolating more, the rollout of the vaccinations has created a high degree of general immunity in the population, and this should protect us over the next year. No booster COVID vaccines should be necessary, although the usual flu vaccines are advised for next autumn.
Expert Opinion on the Winter Outlook
GB News has published the following report on their website:
Reports of a “doom-laden” winter where Britain could be hit hard by an outbreak of flu and COVID-19 are overblown, a top doctor has told GB News.
Dr. Laurence Gerlis’ Insights
Dr. Laurence Gerlis from SameDayDoctor said the UK would benefit from boosted immune systems, thanks to COVID jabs, which help provide protection against other similar diseases.
Optimistic Outlook
He said, “I don’t think there’s going to be a flu epidemic this winter, and I think that doom-laden prediction is wrong.
“We’ve all got very good immunity now. If 80% have immunity against COVID now, that would work as a non-specific immune boost against other viruses of a similar nature.
“We will do a flu rollout in September, of course. I’m quite sure that with COVID on the way out and no flu epidemic this winter, I’m sure we can have a good Christmas.”
Varying Opinions
It comes after Professor Anthony Harnden, deputy chairman of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, said flu could be a “bigger problem” than COVID-19 this winter.