Health authorities across the United Kingdom have issued urgent warnings as a concerning new strain of influenza drives a significant rise in hospital admissions and presents with severe, unfamiliar symptoms.
Surge in Hospital Admissions and Critical Incidents
Data shows daily hospital admissions for flu rose to 2,924 by January 4, 2026, placing immense strain on the NHS. The pressure has become so severe that four hospital trusts have declared critical incidents. Three of these are in Surrey: the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. Additionally, East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust declared an incident due to "sustained pressures" at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate.
Distinct and Severe Symptoms of the New Variant
The circulating strain, identified as subclade K of the A(H3N2) subtype, is presenting a different clinical picture. Medical professionals report patients experiencing more intense and prolonged fevers, sometimes lasting up to seven days. Alarmingly, these high temperatures are often resistant to standard over-the-counter treatments like paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Lung specialist Dr Juanita Mora described the symptoms: "This new strain brings really high fevers and a severe, phlegmy cough that persists. Patients are also presenting with vomiting, diarrhoea, and significant joint and muscle aches."
This increase in gastrointestinal issues is corroborated by Dr Mark Loafman, who noted anecdotal evidence of more GI illness in adults infected with the subclade K strain.
Recognising Flu Symptoms and NHS Guidance
Influenza symptoms typically strike suddenly. The key signs to watch for include:
- A sudden high temperature of 38C or above.
- Aching muscles and joints.
- Extreme tiredness or exhaustion.
- A dry cough and sore throat.
- Headache, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
For most people, managing flu involves self-care at home. The NHS recommends:
- Resting and sleeping as much as possible.
- Keeping warm.
- Drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Taking paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower temperature and ease aches (though this may be less effective with this new strain).
- Gargling with salt water or drinking hot lemon and honey for a sore throat.
The public is advised to be vigilant for the pronounced symptoms associated with this new variant and to take steps to limit its spread.
