All Ok virus signs as ‘scrooge’ H3N2 flu pressure surges throughout UK forward of Christmas
NHS chiefs have warned Brits to look out for symptoms and get the flu jab sooner rather than later amid concerns the new strain could cause one of the worst flu seasons to date – potentially ruining Christmas for many
Brits have been warned to watch out for fresh flu strain symptoms as the virus sweeps across the nation ahead of Christmas.
Health service bosses, including those at Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital in Birmingham, announced critical incidents over concerns the H3N2 strain – known as subclade K – might spark one of the most severe flu seasons on record.
NHS figures published last week revealed an average of 1,717 hospital beds were filled by flu patients, with 69 requiring critical care. It comes as we reported that the UK is being hit by a ‘tidal wave’ of flu.
This represents a 56 per cent increase compared to last year and is 10 times higher than in 2023, reports the Mirror.
Since flu jabs can take more than 14 days to become effective, those hoping to stay healthy over the festive period might wish to consider vaccination by the start of next week.
The NHS has called on elderly individuals, those with underlying health conditions and other vulnerable groups to get immunised.
Dr Chris Streather, Chief Medical Director for the NHS in London, previously stated: “The NHS has prepared earlier for winter than ever before, but despite this, we know that surging flu cases, coinciding with industrial action by resident doctors, will put pressure on services in the coming weeks.
“While we’ve vaccinated over 1.8 million people this season, there are still vulnerable people who haven’t come forward. If you’re in one of the eligible groups and you haven’t had your flu vaccine yet, I urge you to come forward as soon as possible – it’s never too late.”
What are the symptoms?
Flu symptoms – including the H3N2 strain – can develop extremely rapidly, such as:
- a sudden high temperature
- an aching body
- feeling tired or exhausted
- a dry cough
- a sore throat
- a headache
- difficulty sleeping
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea or tummy pain
- feeling sick and being sick
Symptoms are similar in children, but they can also experience ear pain and appear less active. Flu can survive on surfaces for up to 24 hours, so it’s advisable to regularly wash hands and sneeze into tissues.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
Anyone can get a flu vaccine to protect themselves.
But, according to the NHS, flu vaccines are recommended for individuals at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from the flu. These include people who are:
- aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Frontline health and social care workers
