Overview
- UK health officials identify a drifted A(H3N2) subclade K as the dominant strain driving an unusually early rise in cases and hospital activity.
- Interim UKHSA data shows vaccine effectiveness of about 70–75% against hospital attendance in children and 30–40% in adults.
- Paediatric leaders urge parents to consent to school nasal-spray vaccinations, warning flu can cause pneumonia, sepsis and rare deaths in otherwise healthy children.
- The NHS has launched an urgent vaccination push, with jabs available via schools, GP practices and pharmacies, and outreach clinics expanding access.
- Public-health advice urges people with symptoms to minimise contact, practise hand hygiene, ventilate indoor spaces and consider face coverings if going out while unwell.