'Simple steps you can take': How to avoid catching the flu as cases continue to increase
Flu cases are continuing to increase 🤧
- Cases of the flu are still increasing according to latest data.
- Ahead of the festive season, those eligible are being urged to come forward for their vaccine.
- The flu season has arrived unusually early this year.
Flu cases are continuing to increase according to the latest data. with those in eligible groups being urged to come forward for their vaccine in the run-up to Christmas, which provides the best protection against severe illness and hospitalisation.
The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) found that as of November 25, flu cases had increased with a weekly average rate of 11.6% compared with 10.7% in the previous week.
Those who are eligible for the vaccine and have not yet come forward are being urged to do so, ahead of the Christmas period, which will see many of us mixing with family and friends.
The flu season started unusually early this winter, thought to be caused by a new flu strain, H3N2, which now accounts for the “majority” of cases.
Last winter, the NHS was overwhelmed with a “quademic” of seasonal illnesses, with fears that this year might follow a similar pattern.
Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA: “With less than 4 weeks until Christmas, when we will see many people mixing more indoors, we’re urging all those eligible to get vaccinated against flu and RSV as soon as possible to ensure they’re protected against severe illness this winter.
“Both flu and RSV levels have increased again in the past week, and we expect to see infections rise further as people gather and celebrate indoors. It can take around 2 weeks for immunity from the flu vaccine to reach its best, which is why it’s important to get booked in for your vaccine as soon as possible.
“Vaccination can make all the difference in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation for those eligible. If you haven’t yet, please make an appointment with the NHS.”
How to avoid catching the flu?
As cases of the flu continue to increase, there are some steps you can take to help prevent yourself from becoming unwell or spreading the virus.
Dr Watson, said: “There are also simple steps we can all take to help protect one another ahead of the festive period.
“If you have flu or Covid symptoms – including a high temperature, cough and feeling tired or achy – you should try to minimise contact with others, especially those more vulnerable.
“Washing hands regularly and ensuring indoor spaces are well ventilated both help. If you have symptoms and need to go out, consider wearing a face covering.”
As well as following this advice, those who are eligible for the flu vaccine and have not already done so, are being urged to book in for their jab to help prevent them from becoming seriously ill if they catch the flu.
Who is eligible for a flu jab?
The flu vaccine remains the best defence against flu for children and adults, despite the emergence of the H3N2 strain, which is driving an unusually early flu season.
Those eligible for a flu vaccine include people aged 65 and over, those in clinical risk groups, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, pregnant women and children, care home residents and carers, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff.
Parents are being reminded to complete their child’s school vaccination consent forms or to book an appointment for 2 to 3-year-olds if they haven’t already done so, or to book an appointment at their GP.
Why are cases of the flu rising?
The flu season has arrived unusually early this year. The reason behind this is suspected to be the new flu strain, H3N2, which evolved after this year’s flu vaccine was developed. It now accounts for the “majority” of flu infections in the UK.
Despite there being a new flu strain, the latest data on vaccine effectiveness has found that the flu vaccine continues to provide protection against H3N2 cases.
The festive season is around the corner, and the last gift you want to give someone is the flu. Find out if you are eligible for the flu vaccine at NHS.UK.