Experts warn Britain remains far from the end of the flu season as elderly hit hardest

Independent.co reports leading epidemiologists warn Britain is "a long way from the end of the flu season," with rates "stubbornly stable" among over-85s despite an overall decline.

They say the H3N2 strain, specifically Subclade K viruses, is particularly affecting older adults who have less natural immunity. Hospital admissions for flu increased in the first week of January, primarily impacting the over-85 age group, and the NHS is facing "worst pressure" over a wave of flu and a doctors' strike, says Wes Streeting.

Experts anticipate a further rise in cases because of cold weather and the return to school and work after the Christmas break. The UK Health Security Agency confirms flu vaccines are effective against this year's dominant strain, and eligible individuals are being urged to get vaccinated.

Key Topics

Health, Subclade K, Nhs, Ukhsa, Wes Streeting, Older Adults