-
-
-
Loading
Loading
New research published in The Lancet suggests that over 7,000 hospital admissions and deaths related to Covid-19 in the UK could have been prevented during the summer of 2022 if everyone had received the recommended number of vaccine doses. The study found that 44% of the UK population was under-vaccinated, with younger individuals being more likely to skip doses. The research, which analyzed health records for the entire population over the age of five, highlights the potential of using similar approaches to understand and combat other diseases. Between June and September 2022, the percentage of people not fully vaccinated against Covid-19 varied across different age groups. The study estimates that if everyone had taken advantage of the vaccine and booster doses available to them, more than 7,000 hospital admissions and deaths (17% of the total) could have been avoided. The research also revealed a link between under-vaccination and a higher likelihood of severe illness from Covid-19, particularly among those over the age of 75. Prof Sir Aziz Sheikh, co-lead author of the study, emphasized that vaccines significantly save lives. The study's findings can help identify specific groups and areas where targeted public health campaigns should be implemented. Younger people, men, residents of poorer areas, and ethnic minority groups were found to be more likely to decline vaccination invitations, regardless of the UK nation they reside in. The researchers believe that the approach used in this study can be applied to other areas of medicine to improve understanding, prevention, and treatment of various diseases. However, only a few countries, such as Qatar and possibly Israel, currently have the capability to analyze health data across all age groups and backgrounds in a similar manner. Finally, seasonal Covid-19 vaccinations will be available until January 31, 2024, for eligible individuals, and booking can be done through local NHS vaccination services.