H3N2 Flu Surges in UK: NHS Issues Flu Jab SOS Warning

The UK has been battling one of its early flu seasons in recent years due to the newly mutated H3N2 flu strain. However, experts have unofficially labelled it the “super flu” due to its intensity, early arrival, and rapid spread across hospitals. So,  UAE residents who are planning to travel are requested to take immediate travel, including getting a flu jab before flying, especially as the Christmas and New Year holidays are approaching. 

What Makes This H3N2 Flu Strain So Dangerous?

The health authority has revealed that the flu season ‌this year has started a full month earlier than usual. However, the dominating strain H3N2 subclade K is hitting harder because the public has very little built-up immunity. Moreover, ‌NHS England has shared the following data related to the flu: 

• 2,660 flu patients a day were admitted in the first week of December, which is 55% higher than the previous week.
• Projections indicate 5,000 to 8,000 hospital cases by mid-December, which could potentially be a new record.
• Cases are sharply rising in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Moreover, many hospitals are reintroducing mask rules.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirms that H3N2 is currently the most dominant influenza strain in circulation.

Flu Outbreak Triggers School Disruptions

Schools across the UK are also reporting Covid-like absenteeism levels, as hundreds of students are falling sick. Below are the top examples of this fact:

• A primary school in Leeds, where 70 students were absent on one day. Hence, it has reduced singing in assemblies and re-established sanitisation stations.
• A school in Caerphilly, Wales, temporarily closed after 250+ students and staff developed “flu-like illness.”
• Schools in Northern Ireland are comparing the current sickness levels to the Covid era.
  

The UKHSA reported 107 respiratory outbreaks in educational settings between the 24th and 30th November. However, it is seven times higher than this time last year. 

Who Should Get the Flu Jab?

The NHS provides a free flu jab for the following people:

• Adults 65+
• Those with long-term health conditions
• Pregnant women
• Care home residents
• Carers
• People living with someone who has a weakened immune system
  Frontline health and social care workers

Children aged between 2 to 17 will receive the nasal spray vaccine through schools or GP clinics. 

What About Everyone Else?

Private pharmacies, like Boots and Superdrug, offer the jab for around £20. Moreover, the UK Department of Health say there is no vaccine shortage. However, privately purchased jabs might need calling ahead due to high demand. 

Does the Flu Jab Protect Against H3N2 flu?

Yes, early data show 70 to 75 per cent effectiveness in children. In addition, it shows 30 to 40 per cent effectiveness in adults. However, immunity could take up to 14 days to develop. Hence, health officials request vaccinated immediately. 

Symptoms: Cold vs Flu vs Covid

• Cold: Gradual onset, blocked nose, mucus cough
• Flu: Sudden, severe fatigue, fever, muscle aches, dry cough
• Covid: Flu-like plus loss of taste/smell or stomach issues

Warning for UAE Travellers Visiting the UK for the Christmas and New Year Holiday

Thousands of UAE residents are expected to travel to the UK for Christmas and the New Year. However, it is important to stay alert as the H3N2 Flu is spreading too quickly. Below are some tips that can help you stay protected:

• Wear masks in crowded winter settings
• Avoid poorly ventilated indoor events when possible
• Carry a sanitiser and practice frequent handwashing
• Delay travel if experiencing flu symptoms

These tips are especially important because winter travel, packed airports, and cold weather can sharply increase your risk of infection. 

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