Top health officials are warning of a potentially serious flu outbreak this winter, urging the public to get vaccinated as cases of the H3N2 strain rise sharply. The number of infections has already reached levels typically seen in December, raising alarms about a challenging season ahead for the National Health Service (NHS).
Doctor Hilary Jones highlighted the urgency during a recent appearance on ITV’s Lorraine show. He stated, “Australia had the worst flu for seven years. What tends to happen there in their winter tends to follow here.” With hospital admissions climbing, he emphasized that the flu season has commenced earlier than expected.
Vaccination Campaign Underway
The NHS has launched an “SOS campaign” to encourage vaccinations, making 2.4 million appointments available for individuals to receive their flu jabs next week. Dr. Jones noted that many vulnerable individuals may not yet have received their vaccinations, which are crucial for preventing severe illness. He described flu as “much, much worse” than a bad cold, with symptoms including a high fever, severe sore throat, and muscle aches that can leave sufferers bedridden for a week or more.
The current dominant flu strain, H3N2, has undergone significant mutations, with seven changes observed over the summer months. This raises concerns that individuals vaccinated last year might have diminished immunity against the evolving virus. “We’re getting the warning now that this could be a very bad season for flu,” Dr. Jones warned.
Public health officials are stressing the importance of immunisation, particularly for those most at risk. Dr. Jones cited alarming statistics, revealing that last year saw 70,000 excess deaths across Europe, with approximately 7,500 deaths in the UK alone, including the tragic loss of 53 children to flu.
Who Qualifies for Free Vaccinations?
Vaccines are available for various groups, including everyone aged 65 and over, individuals under 65 in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, care-home residents, and frontline health and social care workers. Those who do not qualify for a free vaccine can still protect themselves by purchasing one at a pharmacy without the need for an appointment.
Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton reinforced the call for vaccinations, stating, “Vaccination is the best form of defence against flu – particularly for the most vulnerable. With flu cases already triple what they were this time last year, I urge everyone eligible to take up one of the 2.4 million appointments available next week.”
As winter approaches, health authorities continue to prepare for what could be one of the most severe flu seasons in decades. The time to act is now, and vaccination remains a key strategy in mitigating the impact of this potentially dangerous virus.
