The UK’s flu season has begun more than a month earlier than usual – with cases three times higher than this time last year.
It follows warning signs from the Asia-Pacific region, where Japan has already declared a flu epidemic and closed many schools.
The latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveal cases have this week increased from 6.1% to 8.2%, largely driven by a spike in school-aged children falling ill.
Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, said: “This early rise of flu in children is particularly concerning – especially given that flu circulation in children normally precedes that in adults.”
It’s “vitally important” that anyone eligible for a flu vaccine books theirs in “as soon as possible to avoid a long and drawn-out flu season”, he added.
The NHS has ramped up its vaccine programme and so far delivered more than 12.2m flu jabs this autumn.
For the first time, everyone eligible for winter vaccines has been able to book an appointment since 1 September.
Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “We’re seeing an unusually early start to the flu season this year, with the latest data showing a sharp increase among children but also increases in other age groups, with the virus now starting to spread more widely in the community.
“If you’re eligible for a vaccine it is because you are at greater risk of severe illness – every year we see many thousands end up in hospital and far too many deaths from flu.
“It’s crucial that everyone eligible books their appointment as soon as possible. The vaccine is our best defence.”
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All eligible adults should aim to have received their flu jab by the end of November, the NHS has said.
Appointments are available in GP practices, local pharmacies and community clinic drop-in centres. Parents are being reminded to complete their child’s vaccine consent forms or book appointments for two and three-year-olds.
