The NHS has issued a critical alert regarding an early rise in flu cases, particularly affecting four vulnerable groups. These groups include children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with long-term health conditions. The health service is advocating for those eligible to receive their flu vaccination promptly.
The warning comes as flu cases in the UK have been observed to increase earlier than usual this season. In a recent post on the social media platform X, the NHS stated, “Flu is on the rise,” emphasizing the potential severity for those at higher risk. The organization urged the public to book vaccinations through their general practitioner, pharmacy, or the NHS App to help mitigate serious illness.
According to NHS England, this year’s flu season has arrived sooner than anticipated. The health service noted that the current rise in flu cases is largely due to increased transmission among children. They highlighted efforts by NHS teams to provide vaccinations in community spaces, including bowling alleys, libraries, and sports halls, during the October school break.
Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirms a significant uptick in flu activity. The latest figures show a positive flu test rate of 6.1 percent, up from 5 percent the prior week. Hospital admissions for flu have also risen from 1.29 per 100,000 people to 1.73 per 100,000.
Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, expressed concern over the early onset of flu this year, particularly among children. He stated, “Flu can spread like wildfire across schools and can make children really unwell. The virus changes each year, so vaccination remains the best way to shield your child from getting seriously ill.”
The NHS emphasizes the importance of the flu vaccine, which is offered annually during autumn or early winter to those at higher risk of severe illness. The free flu vaccine is available to individuals who meet specific criteria, including people aged 65 or older, those with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, and caregivers.
Additionally, children aged two or three years as of August 31, 2025, school-aged children from Reception to Year 11, and those aged six months to 17 years with specific long-term health conditions are also encouraged to receive the vaccine.
Flu is highly contagious and spreads easily through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes. The NHS warns that the virus can survive on hands and surfaces for up to 24 hours, increasing the risk of transmission. To reduce the spread of the virus, the public is advised to wash hands regularly with soap and warm water, cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues promptly. Those experiencing a high temperature or feeling unwell should remain at home and limit contact with others.
As flu cases continue to rise, the NHS urges all eligible individuals to take action and protect themselves and those around them by getting vaccinated.