Claire Davies, a 40-year-old resident of Middlesbrough, is advocating for flu vaccinations as flu cases and hospital admissions escalate across the United Kingdom. Hospital admissions for flu have reportedly quadrupled compared to the same period last year, prompting health authorities to take action to safeguard vulnerable patients.
Rising Flu Cases and Hospitalizations
According to statistics from the week ending November 20, 2023, an average of 1,717 patients were hospitalized due to flu, marking a record high for this time of year. Specifically, the North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust reported an average of 26 flu patients in the preceding week, while the South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust recorded 17 patients.
In response to this surge, some hospitals in the North East are reintroducing masks in certain wards to protect at-risk patients. The UK Health Security Agency has also noted the circulation of a newly mutated strain of influenza, which may be contributing to the increasing number of cases.
A Personal Experience with Flu
Davies, who required a double lung transplant following a severe case of flu, emphasizes the importance of vaccination. She believes that receiving the flu jab was crucial to her survival. “I have no doubt in my mind that if I hadn’t had the vaccine, I wouldn’t be here now. It literally saved my life,” she stated.
Diagnosed with two chronic lung conditions, bronchiolitis obliterans and severe cystic bronchiectasis, Davies was considered clinically vulnerable when she contracted the flu in 2022. Her symptoms were so severe that she required a three-month hospital stay, during which her lung capacity was severely compromised.
After being discharged, she learned that she would need a double lung transplant for any hope of long-term survival. “The specialist told me I was very ill and the only chance I had of surviving long term was a double lung transplant,” she explained. “My life has changed completely.”
Now working from home in a desk-based role, Davies faces daily challenges, including carrying oxygen with her at all times. She warns others about the potential dangers of flu, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions. “A lot of people don’t get the flu jab because they think, ‘It’s just flu, I’ll be fine,’ but flu can be deadly, especially for those with lung issues,” she said. “It’s just not worth the risk.”
Public Health Concerns
Sarah Sleet, CEO of Asthma + Lung UK, echoed Davies’ concerns, stating that flu rates are surging due to the newly mutated strain. “Schools have had to close, NHS leaders are calling on people with symptoms to wear masks in public places, and today’s figures show the virus is already driving serious pressure on crowded emergency departments and packed hospital wards,” Sleet noted.
She highlighted the increased risk for individuals with lung conditions, who are seven times more likely to die from flu than healthy individuals. “The most important thing you can do to protect yourself is to get vaccinated. The vaccine not only reduces your chance of catching flu but also the severity of symptoms,” Sleet emphasized.
Asthma + Lung UK is also recommending that individuals with lung conditions consider wearing face masks in crowded or indoor areas to minimize their risk of infection. The charity offers a complimentary Winter Wellness Guide to support individuals in maintaining good health during the winter months.
As flu season intensifies, the message from health professionals is clear: vaccination is a vital step in protecting oneself and others from the potentially severe consequences of the virus. Claire Davies’ personal experience serves as a potent reminder of the importance of taking preventive measures to safeguard health.
