Winter Health Special: Dr. Sarah Filson on Flu, COVID & Protecting Our Community | The Edge NHS
Winter Health Special: Dr. Sarah Filson on Flu, COVID & Protecting Our Community | The Edge on Affinity Xtra Join Roger Moore on this special NHS edition of The Edge on Affinity Xtra! With a "super flu" surge hitting us this December and hospital cases reaching record highs, Roger sits down with Infectious Diseases Consultant Dr. Sarah Filson to cut through the noise and get the real facts for our community. In this episode: We’re facing unprecedented flu pressures this winter, with average daily hospital cases rising sharply. Roger and Dr. Filson break down why this season is different and tackle the questions many of us are afraid to ask. From the difference between a cold, flu, and COVID-19, to addressing vaccine hesitation and trust in the Black community, this is an honest, "no-nonsense" conversation about staying safe. Key Topics Covered: Cold vs. Flu vs. COVID: How to tell them apart, why the flu hits "like a bus," and when to seek urgent help. The "Super Flu" Reality: Why hospital admissions are rising and who is most at risk—including those with diabetes, sickle cell, and asthma. Vaccine Real Talk: Addressing trust issues, the nasal spray for children (and pork-free injectable alternatives), and why "sweating it out" with ginger tea isn't always enough. Community Responsibility: Why protecting yourself is actually about protecting the vulnerable elders and family members around you. Practical Advice: Tips for self-care at home, using 111, and when to see a pharmacist. IMPORTANT UPDATE: RSV Vaccine Eligibility Please note: In the podcast discussion regarding vaccines for older adults, we want to clarify specifically who is eligible for the RSV vaccine on the NHS: Older Adults: It is offered to everyone turning 75 years old (and those currently aged 75–79). Some people turning 80 may also be eligible. At Higher Risk: Adults aged 60–74 with conditions like chronic heart/lung disease or a weakened immune system should discuss their options with a doctor. Pregnant Women: It is offered from 28 weeks of pregnancy to pass protection to the baby for their first few months. Featured Guest: Dr. Sarah Filson – Consultant in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, discussing how we can keep our community healthy and out of the hospital this winter. Important Links & Resources: Book your flu vaccine: If you are over 65, pregnant, have a long-term condition, or are a frontline worker, book now via the NHS App or at www.nhs.uk/seasonalvaccinations. Help with booking: Call NHS 119 for free if you need help or an interpreter. More info: Visit www.nhs.uk/vaccinations for official advice. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are personal and do not necessarily represent the views of Affinity Extra. Always consult your GP or a medical professional for personal medical advice. 00:00 Dispelling Immunity Myths 01:18 Why Do Vaccines Change Each Year? 01:54 Show Intro & Focus on Community Health 03:32 Meet the NHS Infectious Diseases Expert 05:00 Behind The Scenes: Infection Control 06:26 The Seriousness of Infectious Diseases 08:07 Winter, Tradition & Beliefs in Black Communities 09:44 Breaking Down: Colds, Flu, and COVID-19 12:13 Symptoms & When Things Get Serious 14:43 Who Is Most Vulnerable to Flu & COVID? 16:32 Vaccination Eligibility: Who Should Get Protected? 21:41 Why Community Vaccination Matters 23:18 Why We Can’t Combine All Vaccines 25:53 Vaccine Hesitancy & Community Trust 29:31 The Return of Forgotten Diseases 31:40 Community Health Risks: Pneumonia & Beyond 34:39 Natural Remedies vs Medical Advice 36:03 Are Masks Still Useful? 38:37 Check-Ups, Prevention & The Importance of GP Visits 41:44 Winter Fuel Bills & Staying Warm 44:46 Community Responsibility & Looking Out for Others 46:56 Recap: Staying Healthy This Season 49:49 Closing Words & How to Connect #TheEdge #AffinityXtra #NHS #FluSeason #SuperFlu #CommunityHealth #BlackHealthMatters #DrSarahFilson #VaccineAwareness #WinterHealth #Covid19 #SickleCellAwareness #DiabetesAwareness #PublicHealth #RogerMoore #GospelMusic #StayWell #NHS111 #RSV ——— PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THIS CHANNEL Also follow us on our Instagram : / affinityxtra We are are broadcasting over 20 shows and music 24/7 goto to www.affinityxtra.com or download our app: Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/de... iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/affinit... So if you like RnB, Worship, Rap, Traditional Gospel, Afrobeats, Reggae, HipHop, Soulful House, Encouragement, Topical Discussions & Sports this is the station for you. ——— XTRA DEMAND You can have a look back at historical content goto: SOUNDCLOUD: / affinityxtra PODBEAN: https://affinityxtra.podbean.com/ Also features on Spotify & TuneIn ———