There has been a worrying trend in the rise of flu cases in Scotland adding to pressures on NHS services.

For the week ending 15th December Influenza-related emergency hospital admissions rose sharply increasing by 82% from 372 to 677. Influenza accounted for 67% of all admissions due to influenza, RSV or COVID-19.

For the week ending 22nd December laboratory confirmed influenza incidence further increased within extraordinary activity level.
• Steep increase (63%) in the proportion testing positive for flu from 1,698 in the previous week to 2,752 and across all age groups.
• Hospital admissions have risen by 65% from 705 in the previous week to 1,163 .
• This season, incidence is already slightly greater than 2022/23 which had a sharp increase and rapid decline.
• Influenza A dominant and where subtype available H1N1 found in around 90% of positives. Molecular sequences similar to vaccine strain type but no estimates yet of vaccine effectiveness.

Dr Nicholas Phin, Director of Public Health Science at PHS (Public Health Scotland), said:

“Although we always expect to see increases in flu in winter, currently we are seeing particularly high levels of the virus circulating. This is a concern, as flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

“Vaccination is one of the best tools we have in protecting against serious illness from flu. If you’re eligible for a flu, or COVID-19 vaccine, it’s not too late to take up the offer and get protected. Please check with your local health board for details on how to arrange this.”

He continued:

“During this time of increased socialising, we urge everyone to take preventive measures to reduce flu, and other respiratory infections, being spread to others. If you have symptoms of flu or have a fever, you should stay at home and avoid contact with other people, especially people in hospital or those who are vulnerable to severe infections. 

“We can all help prevent infections, like flu, from spreading by maintaining proper hand and respiratory hygiene. This includes covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, disposing of tissues responsibly, and promptly washing your hands afterwards.

“A&E services are exceptionally busy, so we encourage everyone to think carefully before attending if you have flu-like symptoms. Your local A&E is for emergencies, such as a suspected heart attack or stroke, severe breathing difficulties or severe bleeding. If your condition it is not life threatening, you should visit nhsinform.scot first to get trusted advice quickly. For further support, call your GP or NHS 24 on 111.”

Flu, or influenza, is an infectious virus and can be serious, particularly for those with underlying health conditions. You can catch flu all year round, but it’s especially common in winter.

Some of the main symptoms of flu include:

• a sudden high temperature
• tiredness and weakness
• a headache
• general aches and pains
• a dry, chesty cough
• sore throat
• diarrhoea or tummy pain
• feeling sick and being sick
• chills.