A new flu strain is putting severe pressure on healthcare systems across Europe, including the UK, the World Health Organization has said. At least 27 of 38 countries in the WHO's European region are reporting high or very high influenza activity, with the UK among those seeing more than half of patients with flu-like symptoms testing positive.
The WHO said the flu season began roughly four weeks earlier than usual, driven by the A(H3N2) sub-clade K variant, which accounts for up to 90% of confirmed cases in the region. However, the organisation stressed there is no evidence the strain causes more severe disease.
Hans Henri Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, said: 'Flu comes around every winter, but this year is a little different. It shows how just a small genetic variation in the flu virus can place enormous pressure on our health systems.' He urged the public to seek credible information from trusted sources and to get vaccinated.
Early data from the UK confirms the flu vaccine lowers the risk of severe illness from the A(H3N2) strain, though it may not prevent infection. The WHO said vaccination remains the single most important preventive step, especially for older adults, those with underlying conditions, pregnant women, children, and health workers.
The NHS said last week it was bracing for one of its worst winters on record amid mounting pressure on GP surgeries, hospitals, and ambulance services. The flu season is expected to peak in late December or early January.
