Before flu season, every year in the UK, we look at what’s just happened in Australia
A North London GP has warned that the capital could be heading into a “difficult” winter after Australia recorded record levels of flu cases in its most recent season. Dr Frances Baawuah, a GP at the Brondesbury Medical Centre in Kilburn, said the southern hemisphere’s flu trends are a “red flag” for what could be coming to the UK.
She said: “As a GP in North London, I’ve seen how tough winter can be for many of my patients. Every year brings more colds, flu and viruses, but this time, I’m especially concerned, particularly for the most vulnerable. Before flu season, every year in the UK, we look at what’s just happened in Australia. They’re coming out of their winter now, and it can give a good indication of what the season might hold.
The bad news is that they’ve had record high numbers of flu cases. We might be in for a difficult time this winter. Unfortunately, I’m not sure whether our communities will be as prepared as we could be.” she said.
The GP warned that vaccination rates in North London are already too low, particularly among those with long-term conditions. Numbers they’ve gathered locally show that across Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington, last year there was a 37% increase in people with long-term health conditions who haven’t had their flu vaccine.
At the same time, local hospitals saw a 48% increase in emergency admissions with flu last winter. The picture across the rest of London is not dissimilar.
Dr Baawuah stressed that flu can be far more dangerous than many people assume. “Those numbers matter. Flu is not just ‘a bad cold’. It can make people with conditions like heart disease, diabetes or asthma very unwell, sometimes leading to hospital stays and even long-term complications. Vaccination is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect yourself, and those around you.”
In response to rising pressures, NHS North Central London has launched a Winter Wellness Hub with advice on vaccines, GP appointments, pharmacies, urgent care and mental health support. It gives clear guidance on:
– How to book your free flu or COVID-19 vaccine if you’re eligible – Evening and weekend GP appointments – Quick advice from your local pharmacist – Where to go if you need urgent care, mental health support or dental help.”
Dr Baawuah’s message to Londoners is clear: “My message is simple: if you’re eligible, please book your flu and COVID-19 jabs as soon as possible. By protecting yourself, you’re also protecting your family and community. And before heading straight to A&E, take a moment to check local services – it could save you a long wait, and make sure hospitals are there for those who really need them.”
Symptoms of flu
Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include:
- a sudden high temperature
- an aching body
- feeling tired or exhausted
- a dry cough
- a sore throat
- a headache
- difficulty sleeping
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea or tummy pain
- feeling sick and being sick
The symptoms are similar for children, but they can also get pain in their ear and appear less active. The difference between a cold and flu often comes down to how suddenly symptoms hit and how hard they knock you off your feet. A cold usually creeps in gradually and mainly affects your nose and throat, while flu arrives within hours, leaves you exhausted, and makes it difficult to carry on with daily activities.
