Health experts are advising the public to safeguard themselves and their loved ones against a novel strain of influenza. Recent data on the H3N2 variant from Australia indicates a severe flu season, which is anticipated to mirror in the UK during the upcoming winter months. Japan has already witnessed widespread school closures due to the epidemic surge of H3N2 cases, leading to numerous hospitalizations.
Concerns have been raised by British health officials as flu cases have emerged a month earlier than usual, with apprehensions that not enough individuals eligible for the free NHS flu vaccine are availing themselves of the opportunity. Notably, a significant proportion of care home residents, approximately two out of five, remain unvaccinated according to the latest statistics.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has issued a grave warning about the lethality of H3N2, emphasizing the urgency for parents to administer the flu vaccine nasal spray to their children. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates reveal a marked increase in flu-related deaths in England last winter compared to the previous year, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Australia and Japan have faced substantial flu outbreaks attributed to the mutated H3N2 strain which has evolved to evade immunity from prior vaccinations, displaying heightened aggressiveness. This mutation is characterized by distinct hemagglutinin and neuraminidase protein spikes on the virus particle’s surface, facilitating viral attachment and release within the host’s respiratory cells.
Symptoms associated with H3N2 infection often present with more severe fever patterns, with patients experiencing elevated body temperatures and increased likelihood of high fevers exceeding 38°C compared to other flu strains like H1N1. The onset of flu symptoms is typically abrupt and intense, encompassing fever, chills, muscle soreness, headaches, and fatigue, distinguishing it from milder and slower-developing cold symptoms.
Preventative measures to combat flu transmission include annual flu vaccination, good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, avoidance of face touching, and proper cough and sneeze etiquette. Additional precautions involve regular sanitization of high-touch surfaces and minimizing exposure to crowded environments whenever feasible.
Flu vaccines are recommended for various high-risk groups including individuals aged 65 and above, those in clinical risk categories, pregnant women, care home residents and staff, immunocompromised individuals, frontline social care workers, healthcare personnel, and eligible children. For COVID-19 vaccinations, adults aged 75 and older, older adult care home residents, and immunosuppressed individuals are prioritized.
Eligible individuals can conveniently schedule flu vaccine appointments through local pharmacies, the NHS App, GP practices, online booking at www.nhs.uk/bookflu, or by contacting 119 for assistance with the booking process.