UK health chiefs issue warning as flu season starts early
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people to come forward for their flu vaccination as cases begin to rise earlier than expected this autumn.
Latest surveillance data shows an increase in positive flu tests and hospital admissions, particularly among school-age children and younger adults. Flu hospitalisation rates have almost doubled in a week, rising from 0.73 to 1.27 per 100,000 people.
Current flu levels remain within the usual seasonal range, but UKHSA said the early increase mirrors trends seen in 2022–23, when the flu season began earlier than normal following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “This week’s data is showing a rise in positive tests for flu, particularly in children and younger adults, as well as an increase in GP and A&E attendances. It is relatively early in the autumn to be seeing these increases and we will be monitoring this closely in the coming weeks.
“It’s absolutely crucial that everyone eligible for a flu vaccine books their appointment – it could make all the difference in avoiding severe illness and hospitalisation.”
The agency is urging everyone aged over 65, pregnant women, people with underlying health conditions and children aged two to three to get vaccinated. Parents are reminded to return school flu consent forms so eligible pupils can receive their nasal spray vaccine.
While COVID-19 levels are slightly decreasing, the virus remains at medium levels, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity is also rising slowly, particularly among under-fives.
Norovirus activity remains low but has shown a small increase in recent weeks. UKHSA has reminded people with symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea to stay away from work, school and care settings for 48 hours after symptoms stop to avoid spreading the infection.
Professor Antonia Ho, of the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, said flu circulation was increasing across the UK and urged all eligible groups to take up vaccination offers.
“Vaccination remains the best protection for you and those vulnerable around you,” she said.
Dr Christopher Johnson, Head of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme (VPDP) at Public Health Wales, said: “Winter viruses such as flu are easily spread and can be very serious for older people and those with health conditions.
“Getting vaccinated is what we do every winter to stay well – it’s the best protection we have, so it’s important to get your vaccine as soon as you can.
“Protection from flu reduces over time, but getting the flu vaccine every year is the most effective way to help you stay protected from serious illness, which can result in hospitalisation.
“Many people will also be eligible for other vaccinations that help prevent infections that are more common in the winter, including COVID-19 and RSV. Together, these vaccines provide the best protection against the viruses which put many people in hospital and place pressure on NHS resources this winter.
“Flu can take a real toll on your everyday life including work, school, family and social activities. Once you get your appointment, set a reminder to attend your appointment and protect yourself and the people you care for.”
Isabel Oliver, Chief Medical Officer for Wales said: “There are things we can do to help prevent the spread of winter bugs, as well as protecting ourselves. Vaccination remains the most effective tool against flu, but simple hygiene measures like washing hands regularly, and staying home if you are unwell, also help prevent infections that can be very serious for some people.
“Last year, flu season started early and continued through the winter, adding pressure to the health and care system and impacting the delivery of medical services. Don’t delay getting your vaccinations when invited, give yourself the best protection for the season ahead.”
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