Influenza signs to watch out for as H3N2 strain spreads globally

An expert has pinpointed the key warning signs of influenza to watch for, as a new variant, the H3N2 strain, spreads throughout many countries.

Latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that during the week ending December 7, flu cases climbed, with weekly positivity rates reaching 21 per cent - up from 17 per cent the week before in the UK.

Hospital admissions linked to influenza also rose to 10.05 per 100,000 people, compared to 8.09 per 100,000 previously.

Ayesha Bashir, a prescribing pharmacist at Chemist4U, revealed warning signs people should watch out for.

She said: "You may have seen reports about a new flu strain being monitored this season, called H3N2. Flu viruses constantly shift and evolve, so it's not unusual for new strains to develop and be monitored closely.”

Bashir continued, "What matters most for the public right now is that the symptoms we're seeing are exactly the same as with more familiar flu strains, and the way we manage and prevent flu hasn't changed. Every winter we see flu cases climb, but this year they've picked up a little earlier and a little faster than expected.”

"This winter's spike is really down to timing and behaviour. As soon as the weather becomes cold, we all spend more time indoors where viruses spread much more easily. If a new strain like H3N2 is circulating alongside the usual ones, that simply adds more opportunity for infection to spread quickly,” she concluded.

The "key" symptoms Bashir pinpointed to be vigilant about, include:

• A sudden rise in body temperature
• Dry, persistent cough
• Body aches and joint pain
• Headache
• Fatigue that comes on very quickly
• Sore throat
• Loss of appetite
• Occasional nausea or diarrhoea

She further explained: "These symptoms don't differ much between flu strains, so you won't be able to tell which one you've caught based on how you feel. What does matter is how unwell you are overall.”

"If you're struggling to breathe, have chest pain, or your symptoms are worsening after a few days, it's important to seek medical advice. For most healthy adults, flu is unpleasant but manageable at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter treatments,” pharmacist Ayesha Bashir concluded of flu.