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Recent figures reveal a significant rise in flu cases throughout Scotland, with laboratory-confirmed infections increasing by 45% from 555 to 805 over the past week. Public Health Scotland (PHS) data indicates that for the week ending 23 November, the infection rate elevated to 14.5 per 100,000 people, compared to 10 per 100,000 the week before. This surge has been accompanied by higher hospital admissions, which climbed from 279 to 391, as well as a rise in test positivity rates from 11.0% to 15.8%. Notably, PHS reports that all age groups are now experiencing infection levels not typically seen at this time of year.
Dr Victoria Shotton, a Glasgow GP, noted a dramatic increase in flu patients at her practice, describing the situation as more severe than last year’s flu season. Speaking on BBC’s Radio Scotland Breakfast programme, she remarked, “We are seeing a massive increase in presentations on a daily basis. It has started early this year and is more severe than last year.” She explained that this year’s flu vaccine appears less effective because of a new mutation in the circulating virus strain. “Unfortunately it looks like this year’s jab isn’t offering the same protection as last year,” she said, adding that while the current vaccine does not fully cover the dominant strain, it remains beneficial in reducing the severity of the illness.
Regional differences in flu impact are evident, with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde recording 272 flu cases during the week ending 23 November, marking an 18% increase from the previous week’s 230 cases. The infection rate there rose from 18.9 to 22.3 per 100,000 people. Meanwhile, in Dumfries and Galloway, hospitals have responded to a surge in both flu and norovirus by shutting some wards to new admissions and reinstating mask mandates. Visits have been limited across healthcare facilities as authorities call for public cooperation to help control the spread. Dr Kenneth Donaldson, medical director for NHS Dumfries and Galloway, commented on the situation: “We are currently seeing a significant increase in both respiratory and gastrointestinal infections across the region… Seasonal flu has arrived early this year, and we are also managing a rising number of norovirus outbreaks.”
To mitigate transmission risks, face coverings have been reintroduced in clinical settings in Dumfries and Galloway for NHS staff and visitors, with similar recommendations extended to social care workers and independent primary care contractors. Dr Shotton advised the public on key flu symptoms, such as sudden high fever, widespread body aches, chills, lethargy, skin sensitivity, and episodes of vomiting or diarrhea. She emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent vomiting and diarrhea. Those eligible for the flu vaccination—such as individuals over 65, young children, and people with certain chronic health conditions—should have received notification to arrange their immunization, or they can book through NHS Inform
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