A leading pharmacist has issued an urgent warning to parents across the UK as cases of a new, highly contagious flu strain, H3N2, continue to surge. This comes amid an unusually early start to the flu season, raising fears that the NHS could be facing one of its most challenging winters on record.
An Unseasonal Surge in Cases
Data released by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals a severe uplift in flu infections, particularly among children. Alarmingly, over a fifth of five to 14-year-olds taking a PCR test are being diagnosed with flu, indicating rapid spread within schools. George Sandhu, deputy superintendent for Well Pharmacy, highlighted the severity, stating, "Flu data already suggest that this is going to be one of the worst flu seasons on record."
The situation is compounded by a lower uptake of the flu vaccine compared to the same period last year. So far, only around 14.4 million patients have received the jab, falling a concerning four million short of the NHS's target. Dr Helen Steward, RCPCH officer for health improvement, has described this winter's flu season as "particularly bad."
Protection Through Vaccination
Despite the emergence of the H3N2 strain, which has evolved since the development of this year's vaccine (a process known as antigenic drift), health authorities confirm that the vaccine remains the best defence. UKHSA analysis shows the flu jab is currently 70 to 75% effective at preventing hospitalisation in children aged 2 to 17.
Mr Sandhu urged parents to act swiftly: "Parents should ensure they get their child the flu vaccine as soon as possible. It takes two weeks to become fully effective... meaning your child is as safe as can be." He warned that unvaccinated children are at higher risk of severe complications, including pneumonia and hospitalisation.
Who is Eligible for the Free Vaccine?
The NHS is pleading with all eligible groups to book their flu vaccination. Those who can receive the vaccine for free include:
- All children aged 2 to 16 (offered as a nasal spray).
- People aged 65 and over.
- Those with certain underlying health conditions.
- Pregnant women.
- Frontline health and social care workers.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist for Immunisation at UKHSA, reinforced the message: "Whatever strains do circulate here this winter, we can be confident that the vaccine will still help to protect those most vulnerable from developing serious illness and being hospitalised." With over 7,000 flu-related deaths last year, getting vaccinated is a critical step to protect not only individuals but also vulnerable family members this winter.
