Public health experts in England have said flu season could come as early as this year, adding that those eligible for the free vaccination should take up their offer.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the increase in flu levels in England is due to cases among younger adults and school children.
This comes as health authorities in Japan An influenza epidemic was declaredWith the number of infections higher than usual for this time of year.
A report from the UKHSA suggests that although levels of influenza are rising in England, they remain within core – or typical – seasonal ranges. But she added that the levels were similar to those seen when flu season came around in early 2022-2023.
Adam Finn, professor of paediatrics at the University of Bristol, said: “Influenza cases appear to be on the rise early this year. Seasonal epidemics often affect children first and then spread through the adult population.”
According to another Report from UKHSAcovering the period from 6 to 12 October, influenza-like illness consultations in primary care rose to 5.4 per 100,000 people, compared to 4.2 per 100,000 in the previous week.
There has also been a rise in hospital admissions due to influenza, rising to 1.27 per 100,000 people in the latest week, compared to 0.73 per 100,000 in the previous week.
Dr Conal Watson, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “This week’s data shows a rise in positive tests for influenza, particularly in children and younger adults, as well as an increase in GP and A&E attendances. It is relatively early to see these increases in the autumn and we will be monitoring this closely in the coming weeks.”
Watson added that it is “extremely important” that everyone who is eligible for a flu shot makes their appointment. “This can make a big difference in avoiding severe illness and hospitalization,” he said.
Among those eligible for a free flu shot They are people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, people with certain long-term health conditions, and people living in a care home. A nasal spray vaccine is also available for children.
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“Parents should complete school flu consent forms or arrange a GP appointment for eligible pre-school children,” Watson said, adding that the vaccine not only prevents children from becoming severely ill, but can help avoid spreading the flu to others, including grandparents.
Finn also stressed the importance of vaccination, adding that those who do not qualify for a free dose can purchase one at a pharmacy.
He added: “Don’t make the mistake of assuming that influenza is always a mild disease. Even among children, we see serious cases hospitalized every winter.” “Vaccination reduces the risk of contracting influenza and becoming seriously ill from it.”