Health and Me

Itisha Arya

Super Flu Surge In The UK Driven By Children Aged 5 To 14, New Infection Data Shows

super flu cases

Flu infections are rising sharply in the community, according to new figures from the UK Health Security Agency. Children are now at the centre of this increase, which is the highest recorded for this point in winter. Health officials track flu spread through several monitoring systems, including lab checks on samples sent in by hospitals and GP practices when patients arrive with flu-like symptoms. 

<h2>Superflu Cases Climb Across England</h2>

The latest UKHSA data shows that the flu positivity rate in England has risen to 21% from 17% the week before. Swabs taken specifically by GPs were 34% positive for flu, up from 24.2% last week. Children and young people aged five to fourteen continue to show the highest positivity levels.

This follows NHS reports confirming that the number of people in hospital with flu is at a record high for the season, with a 55% jump in admissions in only a week. Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “There is still plenty of flu vaccine available to protect those who need it, but time is running short before Christmas. If you are eligible, this is the last chance to arrange protection before the holidays, so book an appointment with the NHS now. If your child has not yet been vaccinated by the school immunisation team, they can still get their dose at a community clinic over the coming weeks.”

He added that parents unsure about local arrangements should reach out to their NHS school immunisation team, with schools able to direct them if contact details are not clear. Vaccination remains one of the strongest ways to prevent severe illness and hospital stays for those at risk.

<h2>Superflu Spread and GP Illness Trends</h2>

Flu and colds are both increasing, with GP practices reporting a higher consultation rate for flu-like symptoms at 18.3 per 100,000 registered patients. This is up from 13.2 per 100,000 the previous week.

<h2>Why The Superflu Season Is More Intense This Year?</h2>

The main strain circulating this winter is a drifted H3N2 variant, which the UKHSA says has left the community with “less natural immunity.” H3N2 strains tend to cause more serious illness in older adults than H1N1 strains and are linked to higher hospitalisations and deaths. This pattern adds further strain to the NHS during the winter months.

Current data shows that 71.7% of people aged 65 and over in England have received this year’s flu vaccine as of December 7. Uptake remains lower in those under 65 in clinical risk groups (37.4%), pregnant women (35.6%), and children aged two or three (41.9%).

<h2>Super Flu Precautions Ahead of the Festive Season</h2>

Dr Watson noted that there are simple steps everyone can take to limit transmission during the holiday period. Anyone with symptoms of flu or COVID-19, such as a high temperature, cough, or tiredness and aches, should try to limit close contact with others, especially those who are more vulnerable.

Regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated can help reduce spread. For those who need to leave home while unwell, wearing a face covering is advised.

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Flu infections are rising sharply in the community, according to new figures from the UK Health Security Agency. Children are now at the centre of this increase, which is the highest recorded for this point in winter. Health officials track flu spread through several monitoring systems, including lab checks on samples sent in by hospitals and GP practices when patients arrive with flu-like symptoms. Superflu Cases Climb Across EnglandThe latest UKHSA data shows that the flu positivity rate in England has risen to 21% from 17% the week before. Swabs taken specifically by GPs were 34% positive for flu, up from 24.2% last week. Children and young people aged five to fourteen continue to show the highest positivity levels.This follows NHS reports confirming that the number of people in hospital with flu is at a record high for the season, with a 55% jump in admissions in only a week. Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “There is still plenty of flu vaccine available to protect those who need it, but time is running short before Christmas. If you are eligible, this is the last chance to arrange protection before the holidays, so book an appointment with the NHS now. If your child has not yet been vaccinated by the school immunisation team, they can still get their dose at a community clinic over the coming weeks.”He added that parents unsure about local arrangements should reach out to their NHS school immunisation team, with schools able to direct them if contact details are not clear. Vaccination remains one of the strongest ways to prevent severe illness and hospital stays for those at risk.Superflu Spread and GP Illness TrendsFlu and colds are both increasing, with GP practices reporting a higher consultation rate for flu-like symptoms at 18.3 per 100,000 registered patients. This is up from 13.2 per 100,000 the previous week.Why The Superflu Season Is More Intense This Year?The main strain circulating this winter is a drifted H3N2 variant, which the UKHSA says has left the community with “less natural immunity.” H3N2 strains tend to cause more serious illness in older adults than H1N1 strains and are linked to higher hospitalisations and deaths. This pattern adds further strain to the NHS during the winter months.Current data shows that 71.7% of people aged 65 and over in England have received this year’s flu vaccine as of December 7. Uptake remains lower in those under 65 in clinical risk groups (37.4%), pregnant women (35.6%), and children aged two or three (41.9%).Super Flu Precautions Ahead of the Festive SeasonDr Watson noted that there are simple steps everyone can take to limit transmission during the holiday period. Anyone with symptoms of flu or COVID-19, such as a high temperature, cough, or tiredness and aches, should try to limit close contact with others, especially those who are more vulnerable.Regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated can help reduce spread. For those who need to leave home while unwell, wearing a face covering is advised.