Overview
- UKHSA surveillance shows weekly mean flu test positivity rose to 8.2% from 6.1% in the latest week.
- Positivity among 5 to 14-year-olds reached 30.8%, up from 20.0% a week earlier, indicating rapid spread in schools.
- Flu hospitalisations in England increased to 2.19 per 100,000 with 247 new admissions, with rates highest in people aged 85+ and elevated in children under five.
- NHS England reports 12.2 million flu vaccines delivered so far this autumn and warns the early rise could lead to a long, drawn‑out season.
- Officials urge eligible people to book vaccines promptly and advise those with flu or COVID-19 symptoms to limit contact, consider face coverings, maintain hand hygiene and improve ventilation.