UPDATE: In a critical announcement this morning, December 5, 2025, England’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, issued an urgent health warning emphasizing the need to take infections among older adults “much more seriously.” This comes as data shows that individuals over the age of 70 are increasingly vulnerable to severe infections, which can lead to hospitalization and death.
In his latest annual report, Sir Chris highlighted that the current medical approach toward infections in older adults is “hit and miss.” He stated that doctors should adopt a lower threshold for prescribing antibiotics to this demographic compared to younger adults. “Historically, we have been nihilistic about infections in older people,” he stated during a briefing, urging the medical community to recognize that significant preventative measures can be taken.
As the population ages, the risk of severe infections is expected to rise. “If we do nothing, the amount of infection is going to increase,” Sir Chris warned. He noted that older adults are more likely to contract infections such as flu, which is currently surging, putting additional pressure on the NHS this winter.
“Having an infection significantly increases your risk of a stroke, particularly in the first two weeks,” Sir Chris explained. He pointed out that infections like urinary tract infections and pneumonia are critical factors that can lead to debilitating health outcomes.
Despite the clear evidence of these dangers, Sir Chris emphasized that research into infections affecting older adults remains disproportionately low. “Deaths from infections are overwhelmingly dominated by older adults, and this will only become more pressing as our population ages,” he stated.
Sir Chris also shared practical advice for older individuals to improve their protection against infections. “Common sense measures such as hand washing, careful food preparation, and adhering to vaccination schedules can make a significant difference,” he urged. He particularly emphasized the importance of flu vaccinations, especially for vulnerable populations like pregnant women and the elderly.
In a call to action, Sir Chris encouraged older adults to reduce their risk factors for strokes and heart attacks by managing their blood pressure and avoiding smoking. “If we could reduce infections, we would see a corresponding decline in strokes and heart attacks,” he stated.
Echoing concerns about antibiotic resistance, he cautioned against the over-prescription of antibiotics for viral infections. He mentioned that while caution is crucial, “the risk-benefit is more in favor of treatment in older people than in younger people.”
As flu season intensifies, Sir Chris urges immediate attention to the health of older adults, especially as the NHS braces for significant pressures in the upcoming weeks. He concluded, “We need to take infections in older people much more seriously. This is not just a matter of aging; we have the tools to protect and improve their health.”
The health community and families are urged to heed this warning and take proactive measures to safeguard the health of older adults, as the situation develops. Stay tuned for updates as authorities continue to monitor and respond to this urgent health issue.
