Prime Highlights
- Flu cases and hospital admissions in Scotland are rising sharply, driven by the rapidly spreading A(H3N2) strain.
- Health experts urge vaccination as many people lack natural immunity, warning hospitals could face severe pressure this winter.
Key Facts
- Weekly cases increased from 555 to 805, and hospital admissions rose from 279 to 391in just one week, with admissions nearly quadrupling since early November.
- Vaccine uptake in Scotland has dropped by around 400,000 peoplecompared to two years ago, despite the current vaccine still providing protection.
Background
Flu cases are rising at an unprecedented rate across Scotland, with health experts warning that the country may face a difficult winter as the influenza A(H3N2) strain spreads rapidly. Public Health Scotland reported sharp increases in infections and hospital admissions, with all age groups now affected at levels not usually seen at this time of year.
Weekly cases surged by 70% between November 1 and 9, followed by a 45% rise ahead of November 23. Laboratory-confirmed infections climbed from 555 to 805 in one week, while hospital admissions for severe symptoms increased from 279 to 391. Since early November, weekly admissions have nearly quadrupled.
Most infections are linked to the A(H3N2) strain, which researchers say has mutated seven times. As this strain is relatively new, many people lack natural immunity. Dr Bruno Ciancio of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control warned that the mutations may cause vaccine protection to fade more quickly. Speaking at the ESCAIDE conference in Warsaw, he urged people to get vaccinated without delay, adding that even those not eligible for free jabs should consider paying for one if possible.
Early data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that the current vaccine still protects people like it did in previous years. Vaccinated children have a lower risk of severe illness.
However, vaccine uptake in Scotland has dropped sharply, with around 400,000 fewer people coming forward compared to two years ago. Health Secretary Neil Gray encouraged eligible groups to get vaccinated and said health boards are working to make access easier. He warned that without stronger uptake, hospitals could face severe pressure as winter progresses.
