Key Highlights
- The new H3N2 strain is causing a surge in flu cases across the UK.
- NHS England reports hospital admissions for flu up 56% compared to the same week last year.
- Vaccination and good hygiene practices are recommended by health experts.
- This winter could see one of the most severe flu outbreaks in decades, according to health bosses.
Understanding H3N2: What You Need to Know
The current influenza season is causing significant concern among healthcare professionals due to the prevalence of the H3N2 strain. According to recent reports from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), this strain has been identified as particularly dominant in England, marking a potential for one of the most severe flu outbreaks in decades.
The Flu Season’s Early Start
Dr Giuseppe Aragona, GP and medical adviser for Prescription Doctor, notes that several factors contribute to the severity of this year’s flu season. “The flu season has started earlier than usual,” he explains, “which means the virus will have more time to spread. Additionally, the strain has evolved from last year’s version, potentially offering less protection through previous immunity or even the vaccine.”
Key Differences Between H3N2 and Other Flu Strains
The H3N2 strain is recognized as one of two widely circulating strains this season. It is characterized by its rapid symptom onset, extreme tiredness, fever, cough, runny nose, body aches, vomiting, or diarrhea. Dr Aragona highlights that people at higher risk for developing flu-related complications include children under five years old, adults aged 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, and neurological conditions.
Prevention and Vaccination
Health experts are urging the public to get vaccinated against H3N2. Dr Aragona advises that “the most effective way to protect yourself is by getting the flu vaccine, especially if you are in a higher-risk group.” The 2025-2026 vaccine has shown effectiveness rates of up to 70 to 75 percent in children aged two to 17 years and around 30 to 40 percent in adults. Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist for immunisation at UKHSA, strongly encourages all eligible individuals to take up their flu vaccine as soon as possible.
NHS leaders have also issued a “flu jab SOS” urging people to get vaccinated to prevent a spate of flu deaths this winter.
Last year saw around 8,000 deaths associated with flu in the UK, according to data from the UKHSA. This figure is higher than the approximately 3,500 deaths recorded the previous year but lower than during the 2022-2023 season when there were around 16,000 deaths.
Dr Aragona also recommends maintaining good hand hygiene, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with ill people, and keeping your home well-ventilated. “The vaccine may not prevent every infection,” he says, “but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.”
Conclusion
Managing the Risk Effectively
While flu can be unpleasant for most healthy adults and children, health experts warn that older people, those with chronic illnesses, and other vulnerable groups are at a higher risk. Dr Aragona advises vigilance: “Get vaccinated, take sensible precautions, and seek help early if symptoms become severe.” By following these steps, the risk of flu can be effectively managed even in a year when it is circulating more widely.
The flu season has started early this year, making now the time to get vaccinated if you are eligible. The NHS and health professionals emphasize that vaccination remains the best form of defence against serious illness during this challenging flu season.
