Key Highlights
- The UK is experiencing a severe flu outbreak with 56% more hospital admissions than the same week last year.
- H3N2, a dominant strain in England, has been labeled as “unpleasant” by health bosses and could lead to higher flu-related deaths this winter.
- Health experts recommend getting vaccinated and wearing masks if feeling unwell.
- The 2025-2026 vaccine is reported to be 70-75% effective in children aged two to 17, but only 30-40% effective in adults.
The Severe Flu Season Ahead
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning that this winter could see the ‘most severe flu outbreak in decades.’ As the nation braces for what is expected to be an intense flu season, health experts are urging citizens to take preventive measures. Nicole Wootton-Cane and Shaheena Uddin report on the latest developments.
The H3N2 Strain: A Dominant Threat
H3N2, a strain of the influenza virus, has been identified as one of two widely circulating strains in England. Dr Giuseppe Aragona, GP and medical adviser for Prescription Doctor, explains that this particular combination can sometimes cause more severe illness, especially in older people or those with underlying health conditions.
“H3N2 changes regularly,” says Dr Aragona, “so the version of the virus circulating this year may be different from previous years or from the one in the seasonal vaccine, which can make people more susceptible.” The strain has developed seven new mutations over the summer, making it quite different from last year’s strain.
Flu Symptoms and Prevention
The symptoms of H3N2 are similar to those of seasonal flu. They include fever, cough, runny nose, body aches, vomiting, or diarrhea. Dr Aragona notes that extreme tiredness is common among flu patients, distinguishing it from the gradual onset of cold symptoms.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist for immunisation at UKHSA, stresses the importance of vaccination: “The vaccine may not prevent every infection but significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.” The 2025-2026 vaccine is currently estimated to be 70-75% effective in children aged two to 17 years and 30-40% effective in adults.
Other preventive measures include 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. Dr Aragona adds that wearing a face mask outside if you feel unwell can also help prevent the spread of the virus.
Current Flu Rates and Future Projections
NHS England reports that every day last week, 1,717 patients were admitted to hospitals in England with flu, up 56% on the same week last year. These rates are seven times as high as in 2023 when there was an average of 243 flu patients a day.
The flu season has started earlier than usual this year, giving the virus more time to spread and evolve. Fewer people have been exposed to flu in recent years, especially children, which leaves many more vulnerable.
Colder weather, indoor mixing, and social habits contribute to faster transmission.
Dr Aragona warns that while flu can be “unpleasant” for most healthy adults and children, it is particularly serious for older people and those with chronic illnesses. He advises being vigilant: “Get vaccinated, take sensible precautions, and seek help early if symptoms become severe.” With these steps, the risk can be managed effectively, even in a year when flu is circulating more widely.
The UK is braced for a potential spate of flu deaths this winter, with NHS leaders issuing an “flu jab SOS” urging people to get protected. Last winter saw around 8,000 deaths associated with flu, according to the UKHSA, which is higher than the approximately 3,500 deaths recorded the year before but lower than during the 2022 to 2023 season when there were around 16,000 deaths.
For those in a “higher-risk group” such as over 65, pregnant, very young, or living with a long-term health condition, Dr Aragona says the most effective way to protect yourself is by getting the flu vaccine.
The NHS strongly encourages everyone eligible to take up their flu vaccine “as soon as possible,” calling it the “best defence” against serious illness.
With these measures in place and awareness of the severity of H3N2, Britons are encouraged to stay vigilant and prepared for what could be one of the most severe flu seasons in decades. The Independent remains committed to providing updates and advice as this situation unfolds.
