Flu season strikes early as hospital admissions nearly double in just one week

Flu season appears to have struck early this year after hospital admissions nearly doubled in just one week.

The public has been warned of an unusually early flu outbreak across the UK, with infections spreading rapidly among young adults and children of school age.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says that influenza cases and similar respiratory infections are climbing sooner than anticipated this autumn.

The agency's Dr Conall Watson has confirmed there has been a noticeable rise in GP and A&E attendances linked to the outbreak.

The timing has caught health professionals off guard, with infections emerging weeks ahead of typical seasonal patterns.

Recent surveillance data has found the percentage of positive flu tests has jumped from 3.3 per cent to five per cent within a week.

Hospital admissions have surged dramatically, almost doubling from 0.73 to 1.27 per 100,000 people.

GPs have also seen a spike in flu-related consultations - from 4.2 to 5.4 per 100,000 patients.

The surge coincides with warnings from senior medical professionals about NHS services already operating under severe strain.

And now, Britons have been urged to act.

Dr Watson said: "It's absolutely crucial that everyone eligible for a flu vaccine books their appointment - it could make all the difference in avoiding severe illness and hospitalisation."

Free vaccinations are available through the NHS for everyone aged 65 and above, expectant mothers, and patients managing chronic conditions including asthma, cardiac disease and diabetes.

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The epidemiologist noted: "It is relatively early in the autumn to be seeing these increases and we will be monitoring this closely in the coming weeks."

Despite the surge, infection rates remain comparable to those recorded during the 2022-23 season following the pandemic.

Pharmacies throughout England have begun administering influenza vaccinations to toddlers aged two and three for the first time, expanding access beyond traditional GP surgeries.

Dr Watson encouraged parents to act promptly, explaining: "Parents should complete school flu consent forms or arrange an appointment for eligible preschoolers at the GP."

"The vaccine is usually given as a simple nasal spray and could stop your child getting very unwell.

"It will also help avoid them passing on flu to those around them, including grandparents and those with long term health conditions," Dr Watson added.

It can usually be given even when children have minor colds.