Flu hospitalizations up 50 percent in the UK

New Public Health England (PHE) statistics show that seasonal flu levels have continued to increase in the last week across the UK.

There has been a 78% increase in the GP consultation rate with flu like illness, a 50% increase in the flu hospitalization rate, and a 65% increase in the flu intensive care admission rate over the past week.

The main strains circulating continue to be flu A(H3N2), A(H1N1) and Flu B.

Professor Paul Cosford, Medical Director, Public Health England said, “We encourage anyone who is eligible to take up their offer of the flu vaccine – it is not too late. People suffering with flu-like symptoms should catch coughs or sneezes in tissues and bin them immediately, wash their hands regularly with soap and warm water and frequently clean regularly used surfaces to stop the spread of flu. Avoid having unnecessary contact with other people if you or they have symptoms of flu.”

Currently, 71.3% of adults over 65, 46.9% of adults with a long-term health condition, 45.5% of pregnant women, 40.8% of 3-year-olds and 42% of 2-year-olds have received the vaccine.

Seasonal flu usually circulates for several weeks each year. The intensity of circulation depends upon the underlying population immunity, the circulating viruses and external factors such as the weather. It is an unpredictable virus and it is not possible to anticipate how flu levels will progress.

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