Doctor warns you may catch ‘double Covid’ as UK circumstances rise with days to get vaccine
A doctor has warned it is possible to catch Covid twice and that long Covid won’t make you immune as UK cases increase by 11% – with days left for eligible groups to get winter vaccine
You can get Covid while still feeling ill(Image: )
A medical expert has issued a stark warning that individuals could be struck down with ‘double Covid’, potentially contracting the virus whilst still battling symptoms from an existing infection – and there’s even a chance of picking up two different strains simultaneously. Recent data from the UKHSA reveals an 11 per cent surge in laboratory-confirmed Covid cases across the nation, with 51 fatalities recorded in the week leading up to January 9 and over 500 patients hospitalised with the virus.
GP Dr Nish Manek informed the BBC that catching two Covid infections is entirely feasible – and suffering from long Covid offers no protection whatsoever.
She explained: “Unfortunately, having long COVID doesn’t protect you from getting the virus again. Your body’s protection from a past infection or the vaccine fades over a few months. Plus, new versions of the virus, called variants (like Omicron’s KP.3 or XEC in 2025), can slip past your immune system.
“This means that even if you’re still managing long COVID symptoms, you can catch COVID again and, in some cases, it might trigger a flare-up or slow down your recovery.
“A positive test could mean the same or a new variant, but either way, it’s still COVID.”, reports the Mirror.
Dr Manek emphasised that vaccines assist in reducing the likelihood of severe infection, stating: “COVID is still with us and it continues to evolve. So, it’s worth continuing some of those protective habits, like testing if you feel unwell, wearing a mask in busy indoor spaces and keeping up with vaccinations.”
As of January 2026, COVID-19 continues to mutate, with the NB. 1.8.
1 variant (commonly referred to as the “Nimbus” variant) being one of the most prevalent strains currently circulating in the UK.
Latest COVID-19 Symptoms
While many symptoms remain akin to previous Omicron waves, the current variants are frequently reported to cause upper respiratory issues that can mimic a severe cold or flu.
“Razor-blade” Sore Throat: A particularly painful, sharp sore throat is one of the most distinguishing features of the current strains.
Hoarse Voice: Often accompanied by swollen neck glands.
Congestion: A blocked or runny nose and sneezing are highly common.
Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or “wiped out.”
Standard Symptoms: High temperature (fever), a new continuous cough, and body aches still occur frequently.
Less Common Now: Loss of taste or smell is reported much less often than it was at the start of the pandemic.
Who should get a vaccine in the UK?
The UK has shifted toward a more targeted vaccination strategy, focusing on those at the highest risk of severe illness.
1. The Winter 2025/26 Programme (Ending Soon).
The current winter campaign is finishing. The last date to get this dose is 31 January 2026.
You are eligible if you are:.
Aged 75 or over (or will turn 75 by 31 January 2026).
A resident in a care home for older adults.
Aged 6 months or older and immunosuppressed (e.g., due to cancer treatment, organ transplant, or certain long-term medications).
2. The Spring 2026 Programme (Upcoming).
The government has confirmed a Spring 2026 booster programme. Bookings usually open in late March, with vaccinations commencing on 13 April 2026.
