Research shows that, despite being statistically less likely to develop serious illness, those aged 16 to 34 are far more fearful of a new outbreak than older generations – suggesting that the mental scars of the pandemic are most severe amongst the young.
The study, conducted by the Champs Public Health Collaborative – a public health partnership between nine local authorities across Cheshire and Merseyside – revealed how 29% of 16 to 34 year olds surveyed said they are ‘very concerned’, compared with only 18% of over 65s.
Those from an ethnic minority background were also found to be ‘very concerned’ about future outbreaks, with around a third (33%) highlighting their feelings. Just 23% of those white British people surveyed felt the same.
Overall, more than two thirds of people living across the region are worried about the spread of infectious diseases this winter.
Now, health chiefs are calling on the public to remember that such measures as hand washing, sanitising surfaces, keeping distance when unwell, and covering sneezes or coughs, are crucial to help reduce the spread this winter as it’s the ‘Simple Things’ that can make a big difference.
Dr Paul Fitzsimmons, Medical Director at Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It might seem surprising that those who are statistically less likely to get seriously ill from COVID-19 and other winter illnesses are most concerned about outbreaks. But we know that disruption to education and social lives, plus the negative mental health impacts of lockdown, have clearly left a lasting mark on younger generations who are now fearful of what could happen again.
“As we approach winter – and the annual spike in cases of flu, measles and COVID-19 – this highlights the need for all of us to take the steps that can help to reduce the spread.
“For the last two winters, we have all been on high alert for COVID and have changed our behaviours to help make sure we stay safe – in fact, we have seen a reduction in the number of cases of other winter respiratory illnesses, such as flu, largely due to our improved health habits. As such, it’s essential that we maintain this level of awareness and continue to practice good preventative hygiene as much as possible.
“We know that these small preventative measures can make a big difference – we’re encouraging everyone to keep doing these simple things to play their part and help reduce the spread of winter illnesses.”
The study, which was conducted among more than 1,000 people living across the region, also revealed how people were most likely to trust health advice from local clinicians.
Among the collaborative’s findings, mental health was also highlighted as a driver for people’s concerns, with 38% of people saying COVID-19 had a negative impact on their mental health.
Director of Public Health for Warrington, Thara Raj, said: “There are four simple things we can do this winter to help prevent the spread of bugs and diseases. Let’s keep washing our hands, sanitising surfaces, covering our mouths when we cough or sneeze, and keeping a distance when we feel unwell. It sounds so simple, but washing your hands with soap and warm water is one of the easiest ways to prevent yourself and others from catching illnesses like flu, norovirus and the common cold.
“We are hoping that Warrington residents will back our campaign, to remind everyone, that it is still important to take those small steps to reduce the spread of infection. It's the simple things that really do mean a lot!”
If you are eligible, the NHS will let you know when it’s your turn to have the COVID-19 booster and you may also be offered a free flu vaccination. Find out more at nhs.uk/covid-booster.
For more information about the Simple Things campaign, visit simplethings-nhs.com.