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Flu cases in Scotland have surged dramatically, more than doubling within a single week. According to data released by Public Health Scotland (PHS), the number of laboratory-confirmed flu instances jumped sharply from 845 in the prior week to 1,759 during the week of 24-30 November. Alongside this rise, hospital admissions related to the flu increased by 70%, climbing from 426 to 724 patients. PHS has classified the current flu activity as medium level, noting that this uptick has occurred about two weeks earlier than in previous seasons.
Health Secretary Neil Gray described the strain of flu currently affecting Scotland as “challenging,” but reassured the public that vaccine supplies remain sufficient to meet demand. Experts had previously warned at the start of November about the likelihood of an extended flu season across the UK, driven by a new variant that spreads more easily than those seen in past years. The flu season in Scotland notably began earlier, with cases rising sharply as early as mid-November.
Increases in flu-like illnesses have been observed across all age groups, but the rise has been more pronounced in children aged one to four and those between five and 14 years old. Despite this, approximately 40% of hospital admissions remain among people aged 65 and over, which Public Health Scotland says is consistent with previous seasons. The National Records of Scotland reported 17 deaths where flu was the underlying cause and 21 cases where flu was mentioned on the death certificate so far this season, compared to peak figures of 137 and 171 respectively in the previous winter, with most deaths occurring among those over 80.
Inquiries by BBC Scotland News to health boards and local councils revealed mixed impacts from the flu spike. Pupil absence rates were generally in line with past years, although East Lothian Council reported higher absences compared to the previous year. Midlothian Council described school staff absences as “high,” attributable in part to colds and flu. Health boards indicated that flu cases were more prevalent this season, with measures such as ward restrictions and face coverings being introduced in some areas. Glasgow’s health board has advised patients to manage mild or moderate flu symptoms at home and avoid emergency departments, while Dumfries and Galloway’s medical director urged the public not to visit healthcare settings if feeling unwell.
Concerns have also been raised about flu vaccine availability. Community Pharmacy Scotland noted increased demand for private flu vaccinations, with some pharmacies running out of stock. They explained that some individuals eligible for NHS-provided vaccines are seeking vaccinations privately, which has strained private supplies. However, Neil Gray reassured the public that the Scottish government holds “adequate stocks” of the vaccine and emphasized the importance of vaccination in reducing hospitalizations and curbing the spread of flu. Eligible people should have received notifications to get their flu jab and can also book an appointment via the NHS Inform website
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