Health experts have issued an urgent call to action across the UK, warning that a new flu strain could trigger a significant surge in illnesses this winter.
Early Surge Driven by New Subtype
Doctors fear the UK is facing a potentially severe flu season, with the H3N2 subtype identified as the primary driver. Flu activity has risen unusually early, with cases first appearing in teenagers and young adults before spreading to younger children.
Where testing has been conducted, a substantial 84% of confirmed cases have been identified as this particular H3N2 strain. This early and aggressive pattern has raised significant concerns among medical professionals about the potential scale of the outbreak.
Vaccination is Vital Protection
All eligible children and adults are being strongly urged not to delay receiving their free flu vaccination. Paul Fisher, a UKHSA West Midlands consultant in health protection, emphasised the critical importance of timely immunisation.
"With flu season hitting the UK early this year, it’s vital that people at increased risk of severe illness and hospitalisation get protected as soon as possible," Fisher stated. He highlighted that it takes the vaccine a few weeks to provide maximum protection, making early action crucial.
Despite concerns about the new viral subclade, early data provides reassuring evidence that this season’s flu vaccine is offering important protection.
Who is Eligible for a Free Jab?
The groups most at risk of serious illness from flu and therefore eligible for a free NHS flu jab include:
- Children under five years of age
- Older people and pensioners
- Anyone with certain long-term health conditions
- People with reduced immunity
- Pregnant women
Fisher expressed concern that some people may not realise they’re eligible for a free flu vaccine. He also stressed that vaccinating children and young people is particularly important as they often spread the virus to more vulnerable individuals in the community.
"Vaccination remains the best defence against serious illness from flu," he concluded, urging the public to 'stay strong, get vaccinated' to protect themselves and those around them.
