Top News

Britons eligible for the flu jab are being urged to book an appointment "as soon as possible" amid rising infections. The UK's Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is warning that this year's flu season has begun "unusually early", with cases three times higher than this time last year.

Data from the UKHSA show that infections have increased this week, from 6.1% to 8.2%, largely driven by a spike in school-aged children falling ill. Dr Alex Allen, UKHSA consultant epidemiologist, encouraged those eligible for the flu vaccine to come forward, saying it is "our best defence". He said: "We're seeing an unusually early start to the flu season this year, with the latest data showing a sharp increase among children but also increases in other age groups, with the virus now starting to spread more widely in the community.

"If you're eligible for a vaccine, it is because you are at greater risk of severe illness - every year we see many thousands end up in hospital and far too many deaths from flu.

"It's crucial that everyone eligible books their appointment as soon as possible."

Hospital admissions for flu in England stood at 2.2 per 100,000 people last week, up from 1.7 the previous week.

Although this remains well below the peaks reached in recent seasons, it is double the rate at this point in 2024 (1.1) and higher than the rates at this stage in 2023 (0.2) and 2022 (1.2).

Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, said the early rise of flu in children is "particularly concerning", explaining this usually precedes a rise in adult infections.

Warning of what is likely to be a "very challenging winter", he said: "It's vitally important those eligible come forward for their vaccine as soon as possible to avoid a long and drawn-out flu season.

"The flu virus changes every year, so it's important to get a vaccination each year to ensure your and your family's protection, and to help reduce the spread to others."

The calls follow warning signs from the Asia-Pacific - Japan has already declared a flu epidemic, with many schools closing.

The NHS says eligible adults should aim to have their flu vaccination by the end of November.

Jabs are available for everyone aged 65 and over; for those under 65 in clinical risk groups; care home residents and carers; pregnant women; close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed; and frontline health and social care workers as well as children.

Appointments and walk-in sessions are available in local pharmacies, GP practices and community clinic drop-in centres across the country.

Parents are also being reminded to complete their child's vaccination consent forms for schools, or to book an appointment for two to three-year-olds.