The early sign you might have the new H3N2 flu strain as flu outbreak continues - symptoms
There has been an unusually early start to the flu season 🚨
- The flu season has arrived unusually early.
- The new flu strain H3N2 is suspected to be behind the rise in numbers.
- Those who are eligible are being urged to protect themselves with the flu vaccine ahead of the festive period.
A new flu strain is thought to be behind the surge in cases and the unusually early start of the flu season across the UK.
The new H3N2 flu strain now makes up the “majority” of cases. Data released by the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) shows cases remain particularly high in children and young adults.
H3N2 is different from last year’s flu strain, leading to less immunity amongst the population and higher infection rates.
Those who are eligible for the flu vaccine are being urged to come forward and book an appointment for the jab if they haven’t already done so.
Dr Alex Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “This week’s data shows how respiratory virus seasonal trends can vary from year to year, with RSV starting later than expected and flu starting over a month earlier. Despite our virus surveillance showing a mixed picture of activity for flu, we still expect to see further increases as we head into the colder winter months.
“With temperatures already starting to drop this week, we expect to see an increase in indoor mixing, which is why it’s particularly important if you’re eligible, to get vaccinated- it remains our best defence against severe illness and hospitalisation.”
What is the new flu strain H3N2?
Strains of the flu continue to evolve throughout the year, similar to Covid. Agencies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) monitor flu strains, with their predictions helping to develop the yearly flu vaccine.
H3N2 is a flu strain that has continued to evolve after the development of this year’s flu vaccine, which is why flu cases have spiked unusually early this year.
What are the symptoms of the new flu strain?
Despite the new strain, the symptoms of the flu have remained the same. Early signs you have the flu can include a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, a hoarse voice, a cough or feeling tired. Additional symptoms can include a headache, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, diarrhoea or tummy pain or feeling sick and being sick.
Will the vaccine still work against the new flu strain?
The flu vaccine remains the most effective way to protect yourself against severe illness caused by the flu, despite the strain. Latest data from the UKHSA showed that it is currently 70 to 75% effective at preventing hospitalisation from the flu in children aged 2 to 17 years and 30 to 40% effective in adults.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist for Immunisation at UKHSA, said: “Whatever strains do circulate here this winter, we can be confident that the vaccine will still help to protect those most vulnerable from developing serious illness and being hospitalised. We strongly encourage all those eligible to get vaccinated against flu as soon as possible – it remains our best defence against serious illness.”
Those who are eligible for the flu vaccine are being urged to book an appointment and come forward if they haven’t already done so. You can find out more information at NHS.UK.