UPDATE: In a critical warning issued today, Chris Whitty, the Chief Medical Officer for England, has highlighted a pressing issue regarding the rising rates of infections among older adults. Speaking at a briefing on December 5, 2025, he emphasized the need for immediate action to protect those aged 70 and over from preventable infections.
Whitty stated that current healthcare approaches to older populations are “hit and miss,” urging medical professionals to adopt a lower threshold for prescribing antibiotics to this vulnerable group. He noted that older individuals are often “underserved” when it comes to research and care for infections, leading to severe health implications.
“Deaths from infections are overwhelmingly dominated by older adults,” Whitty asserted, warning that as the population ages, the number of infection cases is set to increase significantly. He pointed out that the NHS is currently facing “significant pressures” due to a rise in flu cases, which particularly affect the elderly.
Data reveals that individuals over the age of 70 are at a higher risk of catching infections, suffering severe illness, and even dying from such conditions. Whitty emphasized that the medical community must take infections in older adults much more seriously, stating, “We can do a lot about it.”
Infections can also lead to severe complications, including an increased risk of stroke and heart attacks, particularly within the first two weeks following an infection. “If we could reduce the infections, we would reduce strokes and heart attacks,” he explained, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.
Whitty urged older adults to take proactive steps to protect themselves, such as maintaining stringent hygiene practices, including regular hand washing and careful food preparation. He also encouraged vaccination uptake, stating that older individuals should be vigilant about accepting NHS vaccines.
“For all these reasons, my view is that we should be taking infections in older people much more seriously,” Whitty insisted.
Additionally, he addressed concerns over antibiotic use, cautioning against over-prescribing, which contributes to drug resistance. While acknowledging the need for restraint in younger demographics, he noted that the risk-benefit ratio favors antibiotic treatment for older patients due to their heightened risk of severe complications.
Whitty’s remarks come at a crucial time as the nation braces for an impending flu season. He called upon the public to prioritize vaccinations, particularly among pregnant women, who are currently experiencing low uptake rates for flu shots.
As the NHS prepares for what could be a challenging winter, Whitty’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by older adults in the UK. The situation is developing, and immediate attention is required to ensure the safety and well-being of this demographic.
Authorities are urging families to take these recommendations seriously and to ensure that older relatives are shielded from preventable infections. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the responsibility lies on both medical professionals and the public to act swiftly.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent health warning as the situation develops.
