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Last winter’s influenza outbreak took many by surprise, arriving more than a month earlier than is typical and driven by the so-called Super-K strain. Although “super flu” is a popular term, it does not indicate that the virus has become more difficult to treat; rather, it reflects the lack of prior immunity among the population to this particular strain.
Each year, flu vaccines are revised to better target the specific strains expected to circulate, accounting for the constant mutations influenza viruses undergo. This year’s vaccine includes adjustments to improve its effectiveness against subclade K. While it remains uncertain when flu will peak this season or how severe it might become, health experts often study flu activity in southern hemisphere countries such as Australia and New Zealand. Their flu seasons typically reach a peak in July or August, and so far, these nations have experienced only a mild season.
Dr Amanda Doyle from NHS England emphasized a cautious approach given the past year’s experience. She remarked, “Last year’s flu season came early and was made worse by a new variant, which had a major impact for patients and put enormous pressure on urgent and emergency care services across the country.” She further noted the NHS has faced record demand over the summer and that preparations for this upcoming winter are being made earlier than ever. Doyle stressed the importance of vaccination, stating that with NHS services already stretched, it is crucial everyone eligible receives their flu jab.
Flu poses a risk to people regardless of age or health status. Dr Doyle explained that the illness can be debilitating, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, where it may lead to serious illness or hospitalization. The flu vaccine itself does not cause influenza; instead, it trains the immune system to recognize and fight the virus. The vaccine is administered as a nasal spray to children aged two and over, while adults receive an injection, with just a single dose needed to provide protection before winter.
Flu vaccines can be obtained through various channels including high street pharmacies, general practitioners, and schools. Although some groups are eligible for a free NHS vaccine from specific times, others may need to pay a fee ranging roughly from £10 to £20. Free vaccination is available from September for school-aged children and pregnant women, and from October for individuals who are aged 65 and over, have certain long-term health conditions, live in care homes, act as primary carers for older or disabled persons, live with someone who has a weakened immune system, or face homelessness.
In addition to the flu vaccine, this year sees an expanded offer of another vaccine targeting RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), a respiratory infection affecting the lungs. Starting in September, adults aged 65 and above who have existing health issues such as chronic lung disease will be invited to receive the RSV vaccine earlier than before, changing from age 75 to 65
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