Flu now circulating in UK, government confirms

Public Health England has confirmed that flu is now circulating in the community, based on its latest figures.

Increases have been seen for several indicators of influenza circulation, in particular the number of confirmed flu-related hospitalisations amongst younger adults, with the strain A(H1N1)pdm09 identified as the main seasonal flu virus.

It is known that this strain particularly affects children, pregnant women and adults with long-term conditions such as chronic heart disease, liver disease, neurological disease and respiratory disease, underlining the importance of at-risk individuals taking precautions.

Dr Richard Pebody, flu expert for Public Health England, said: "It's not too late for children and people in at-risk groups to get the vaccine for free, and this remains important now that flu is circulating."

Public Health England recommends the targeted use of antivirals for the treatment and prophylaxis of individuals at higher risk of the severe consequences of seasonal influenza. Some infections can lead to illnesses that are more serious, including bronchitis and secondary bacterial pneumonia.