UK Doctor Warns of Rising Flu Risks for Children Amid Surge

A prominent UK paediatrician has raised alarms over the increasing risks posed by a new strain of flu, referred to as the “super flu,” particularly for children. Dr. Helen Stewart, an officer for health improvement at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), highlighted the concerning rise in hospital admissions as children present to A&E with flu symptoms. This surge is prompting some schools to close in an effort to curb the spread of the new mutant H3N2 strain, which differs from the flu viruses targeted by this year’s vaccines.

Dr. Stewart emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention if children exhibit flu symptoms. “Paediatricians are having an extremely difficult and busy winter, with high rates of flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) across the UK,” she stated. “Flu is driving a lot of admission numbers at an earlier stage of the year than usual. Many people mistakenly think that flu is simply a bad cold; however, this is far from the case. The flu can make children feel very poorly and lead to serious complications.”

The flu season of 2023-2024 is already being described as one of the most severe in decades. The NHS is grappling with a significant increase in flu cases, which has placed immense pressure on healthcare services. According to reports, approximately 3.3 million school-aged children had received a flu vaccine by December 5, 2023, with 489,742 of those children aged two and three.

In response to the surge, the RCPCH has published guidance for parents and caregivers, reiterating that vaccination remains the most effective means of protecting children from flu. Hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of patients, leading to critical incidents being declared at facilities such as University Hospitals Birmingham.

The chief executive of NHS England, Sir Jim Mackey, has warned that record numbers of flu patients are expected to be admitted across the country. In Liverpool, the Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust has announced an early increase in winter illnesses, including flu. Chief nurse Nathan Askew emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “The best protection for you and your family is the flu vaccine, especially if you’re eligible for a free NHS jab. It lowers the risk of serious illness and helps ease pressure on health services.”

As hospitals face escalating challenges, schools have begun implementing measures to limit the spread of illness. Daniel Elkeles, chief executive of NHS Providers, urged individuals with cold or flu symptoms to wear masks in public settings to mitigate transmission. This flu season’s symptoms develop rapidly, with extreme tiredness being a common indicator, distinguishing it from the more gradual onset of cold symptoms, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

With the flu’s symptoms, which include fever, cough, and runny nose, resembling those of seasonal influenza, healthcare professionals stress the importance of vigilance. The current situation underscores the need for awareness and proactive health measures as families navigate this challenging winter season.