As the new H3N2 flu strain sweeps across the UK, a pharmacist has revealed the early symptoms to look out for. The advice comes as the NHS has urged Brits to wear face masks again
A new strain of the flu is sweeping across the UK just before Christmas, with some hospitals declaring critical incidents as cases rise at an alarming rate.
NHS chiefs fear the H3N2 strain – labelled ‘subclade K’ – could trigger one of the worst flu seasons to date. The latest data ahead of the next release on Thursday said an average of 2,660 patients were admitted to hospital with the flu each day last week – a new record for this time of year. It represented a 55 per cent increase on the week before with ambulance call-outs also rising to 48,814 compared to last year.
The government has urged Brits to wear face masks on public transport and even in the office as the NHS fights to cope with the pressure of cases. As the new strain spreads, experts have revealed the first tell-tale signs of the new ‘superflu’ to watch out for.
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Ayesha Bashir, Prescribing Pharmacist at Chemist4U, told Wales Online: “Flu viruses constantly shift and evolve, so it’s not unusual for new strains to develop and be monitored closely.” And according to the expert, a high temperature and sudden fatigue are two early warning signs of the H3N2 flu strain.
“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,” she added.
Health experts have warned there is no sign it has yet peaked, which means many more people are likely to fall ill in the weeks and months ahead. “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,” Ayesha added. “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.”
Key symptoms of the new flu include:
- A sudden high temperature
- A dry, persistent cough
- Body aches and joint pain
- Headache
- Fatigue that comes on very quickly
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Sometimes nausea or diarrhoea
“For most healthy adults, flu is unpleasant but manageable at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter treatments. The people who need to be more cautious are those who are pregnant, over 65, very young, or living with long-term conditions like asthma, COPD, diabetes, or heart disease. If you’re in any of these groups, do seek advice as early as possible,” the expert noted.
While these new strains can sound worrying, Ayesha said it’s part of how the flu virus “behaves every year” and with vaccinations, good hygiene and early symptom managment, it can all make a big difference. So if you are feeling unsure on your symptoms, or need some extra attention, it’s always advised to speak to a GP or pharmacist for help.
