Lloyds Pharmacy Issues Flu Warning as NHS Notes Early Start to Flu Season
The flu season has arrived earlier than usual this year, with the NHS reporting a significant early wave across the UK. Flu cases have surged to three times the level seen at the same time last year.
Rising Flu Cases and Surveillance Data
According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu cases increased this week from 6.1% to 8.2%, driven largely by a spike among school-aged children. This is a sharp rise compared to 2.9% at this time last year.
"This early increase has raised concerns about the flu spreading widely in the coming weeks and potentially causing a long and drawn-out flu season."
NHS Vaccination Efforts
The NHS is intensifying its autumn and winter flu vaccination campaign to curb the spread of the virus. So far, a reported 12.2 million flu vaccines have been administered this autumn.
Expert Advice from LloydsPharmacy
Dr Bhavini Shah, a GP from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, emphasizes the importance of timely vaccination and warns of potential risks for those who delay or skip the jab.
"Flu season typically begins in the autumn and peaks between December and February, so getting vaccinated early gives your body time to build immunity before the virus starts circulating widely. It takes around two weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection."
Key Takeaways
- Flu season started about a month earlier than usual in the UK.
- Flu cases have tripled compared to last year at this time.
- School-aged children are a major factor in the rising cases.
- Over 12 million flu vaccines have been given this autumn.
- Early vaccination is crucial for timely immunity.
Summary: The NHS is facing an early and intense flu season, urging widespread vaccination to prevent a prolonged outbreak as cases rise sharply, especially among children.