Overview
- A new H3N2 strain circulating early is linked to a higher rate of significant illness, according to the BMA’s Scottish GP chair.
- Most cases should be managed at home with rest, regular paracetamol or ibuprofen for strong muscle aches, and plenty of fluids, especially if vomiting or diarrhoea occurs.
- People should seek medical review if chest tightness makes basic tasks difficult or if they struggle to form sentences, which may signal low oxygen levels.
- Other red flags include significant chest pain, severe unremitting muscle aches, or vomiting and diarrhoea so persistent that urine output becomes very low.
- NHS services are experiencing pressure from winter illness and staff shortages, and clinicians note rising private vaccine uptake among self‑employed workers.