H3N2 is currently the most dominant strain of flu circulating in England
The H3N2 flu strain is currently the most prevalent in England, with cases spiking much earlier this winter than in previous years. Experts are warning that it could signal the worst flu outbreak in decades, mirroring Australia’s experience of its largest flu season in history this year.
This strain can sometimes cause a more severe illness, especially in older people and those with underlying health conditions. The strain also mutates regularly, meaning the dominant version circulating this year could be different from those to which people have built up immunities in previous years.
Symptoms of the H3N2 strain are similar to any other flu strain. Unlike a cold which starts gradually, flu symptoms can quickly develop.
Flu symptoms, according to the NHS:
- 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
Children may experience similar symptoms but could also become less active and may experience ear pain.
Data from the UKHSA shows the rate of hospital admissions for flu in England is on the rise and is currently at 3.8 per 100,000 people. This level of outbreak is usually only seen in December in the UK.
Over the summer, H3N2 developed seven new mutations according to experts, meaning it’s very different from previous strains and even the strain that was used in this year’s flu vaccine.
The best way to shield yourself from the flu this winter is by getting jabbed, especially if you’re in a high-risk group. The jab might not ward off every strain of flu, but it can significantly lessen the severity of the illness and the risk of hospitalisation.
Other higher risk groups include:
- People aged 65 or over
- Pregnant people
- Those with long-term medical conditions that affect their heart, lungs, kidneys, brain or nerves
- People with weakened immune systems, for example those having chemotherapy treatment
Anyone in these categories who experiences flu symptoms is strongly advised to book a GP appointment or seek help from 111. This also applies to anyone whose symptoms do not improve after seven days.
