The United Kingdom is potentially facing its most severe flu season in ten years, driven by a new, rapidly spreading mutated strain of the virus. Health experts warn that this new variant, which emerged earlier than usual, is 'hotter and nastier' and could lead to a significant number of fatalities.
An Unusual and Concerning Virus
According to leading scientists, a potentially dangerous new strain of flu has begun circulating in the UK. Professor Nicola Lewis, director of the World Influenza Centre at the Francis Crick Institute, expressed deep concern, stating to the BBC: "We haven't seen a virus like this for a while, these dynamics are unusual. It does concern me, absolutely. I'm not panicking, but I am worried."
The surge in cases, which began unusually early in September, is attributed to a mutated form of the H3N2 influenza variant. Professor Derek Smith from the University of Cambridge confirmed that a sudden mutation was detected in June, featuring seven distinct changes. He warned that this new strain "almost certainly will sweep the world."
Early Surge and Severe Impact
The data indicates that this early flu wave is being driven by infections among younger adults and school-age children. The situation has become so serious that Japan has taken the step of closing schools to contain outbreaks.
The historical context underscores the potential severity. In the last flu season, nearly 8,000 people died in the UK from flu, while the 2022-23 season saw a devastating 16,000 deaths. Experts fear this season could be worse than any in the last decade.
Professor Christophe Fraser from the University of Oxford's Pandemic Sciences Institute confirmed the grim outlook, saying, "It's highly likely it's going to be a bad flu season and it's going to happen quite soon, we're already well into it."
Urgent Calls for Vaccination and Precaution
In response to the growing threat, the NHS and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are issuing urgent appeals for eligible groups to get their flu jab. Dr Conall Watson, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, emphasised that "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."
Eligible groups include everyone over 65, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, and diabetes. Parents are also being reminded to ensure their children are vaccinated through school programmes or for younger children, by booking an appointment.
The UKHSA advises that anyone with flu or Covid symptoms, including a high temperature, cough, and fatigue, should try to minimise contact with others. Dr Cheryl Lythgoe from Benenden Health recommends that individuals who fall ill should isolate for up to seven days, as they may still be contagious even after symptoms start to ease.
