Positive flu cases rose significantly in the last week of 2024, according to data from the UKHSA.
Weekly hospital admission rates for influenza were 14.09 per 100,000 in week 52 of 2024, compared to 10.69 in week 51 and 8.72 in week 50.
The national booking system for flu vaccinations closed on 19 December. However, eligible groups are still able to book a vaccination through their GP or local pharmacy. In addition, the UKHSA are urging the public to follow good hygiene practices as flu continues to circulate.
‘If you’re still offered a vaccine through local services, you should take it up as we could see high levels for some weeks still,’ said UKHSA chief medical advisor, Professor Susan Hopkins. ‘This is particularly important if you’re a health and social care worker, as we know these services are under significant winter pressures right now.’
Surveillance from UKHSA also showed that levels of COVID-19 and RSV decreased over the festive period. Vaccinations against RSV are now available to anyone 28 or more weeks pregnant, and anyone aged 75 to 79. See more on RSV in the next issue of Community Practitioner.
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