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The NHS has issued a pressing alert to four groups of people who are at a "higher risk" of contracting a winter illness. The health organisation has noted that flu cases are currently "on the rise" in the UK, and is urging those eligible to get their flu jab. In a post on social media platform X, the NHS stated: " Flu is on the rise ." The health body identified those most susceptible to severe complications. "It can be serious for people at higher risk - like children, pregnant women, older adults and those with long-term conditions," the NHS warned. "Help prevent serious illness and protect others - book [your vaccine] via your GP, pharmacy or the NHS App ." NHS England also cautioned that this year's flu season has arrived earlier than expected. "Flu cases are rising earlier than usual because of the spread of infection among children," it announced on X. "NHS teams are going above and beyond this half term to curb this by offering vaccinations in community spaces like bowling alleys, libraries and sports halls." Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKSA) reveals that flu activity has increased in the most recent week recorded, "particularly among children", and is now "above baseline" according to some indicators. The report detailed how the rate of positive flu tests increased, with a weekly mean positivity rate of 6.1 per cent, compared to five per cent in the previous week. This figure is based on the percentage of individuals testing positive in hospital. Flu hospitalisations have seen a rise from 1.29 per 100,000 to 1.73 per 100,000. Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, expressed his concern, stating: "It is hugely concerning that flu has hit us early this year, with a worrying increase among children. Flu can spread like wildfire across schools and can make children really unwell. "The virus changes each year, so vaccination remains the best way to shield your child from getting seriously ill." The NHS website provides information on the flu vaccine, explaining: "The flu vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. "It's offered on the NHS every year in autumn or early winter to people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu." The jab is recommended for those at a higher risk of severe illness from the flu. The free NHS flu vaccine is available if you: Are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026) Frontline health and social care workers are also eligible for the flu vaccine through their employer. The vaccine is additionally offered to: Flu is "very infectious" and "easily spread" to others, with the NHS stating that you're more likely to pass it on in the first five days. The flu virus is transmitted through germs from coughs and sneezes, which can survive on hands and surfaces for 24 hours. To minimise the risk of spreading the flu: If you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to carry out your usual activities, it's also advisable to stay at home and avoid contact with others.
