Overview
- UKHSA data show flu admissions in England rose to 3.8 per 100,000 last week from 2.4 the week before, with the earliest surge concentrated in children aged 5 to 14.
- NHS England says 2.4 million vaccination slots will be available next week to boost protection before winter pressures intensify.
- Experts report seven new mutations in the H3N2 strain detected in June and warn the virus could spread widely and drive one of the worst seasons in a decade.
- Recent volatility is underscored by UKHSA estimates of 7,757 flu deaths in England last winter, more than double the 3,555 recorded the year before.
- Officials urge eligible groups to get vaccinated and to reduce contact when symptomatic, as Australia’s large season and school closures in Japan signal widespread early activity.