New H3N2 flu strain is circulating

The flu arrived early this year and experts predict this season could be particularly bad as a new strain of the virus circulates.

The H3N2 “subclade K” variant is a mutated strain of the seasonal influenza A virus and people haven’t encountered much of it in recent years.

This means there is less immunity against it.

The NHS has already sent a ‘Flu SOS’ to vulnerable people.

So how bad could this winter be, and should you buy a flu shot even if you’re generally fine and have to pay for it?

The NHS offers a free flu vaccine to people who need it most, including:

• anyone aged 65 or over
• those who have certain long-term health problems
• pregnant women
• residents of retirement homes
• carers of elderly or disabled people, or those receiving care allowance
• people who live with someone who has a weakened immune system

Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu shot through their employer.

A nasal spray version of the flu vaccine is also offered to children aged 2 to 3 years as well as school-age children (reception up to year 11).

Children can easily catch and spread the flu. Vaccinating them also helps protect others who are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from the flu.

Everyone should buy one.

Even if you are healthy, you may still want to purchase a flu vaccine this winter.

Vaccines still work against the derived strain of the A(H3N2) influenza virus, which some call the “super flu.”

High street pharmacies sell the vaccine for around £20.

It is best to get vaccinated earlier to protect yourself during the winter.

The vaccine usually takes up to 14 days to work.

During this time, you are still susceptible to catching the virus.

Some people mistakenly think the vaccine gave them the flu, but the vaccine does not cause the flu. Instead, it gives your body the instructions it needs to fight an infection if you get it.

You may still get the flu after getting vaccinated, but it will likely be milder and not last as long.

Protection wanes over time, which is why a vaccine is offered every year.

The vaccine is frequently updated to best match the strain or version of flu that experts believe will be circulating.

There are a lot of coughs and colds going around. So how do you know if you have the flu or something else? Your symptoms may give a clue.

Common cold

• Symptoms appear gradually
• Mainly affects the nose and throat
• Early sign: pressure in your ears
• Chest, mucous cough

Flu

• Arrives suddenly
• Feeling devastated
• Fever, muscle pain, exhaustion
• Need bed rest
• Dry cough

Covid

• Typical flu symptoms
• Loss of taste or smell
• Diarrhea or stomach aches

If you meet people indoors, open a window for fresh air.

Adopt good hygiene:

• cough into your bent elbow, or use a tissue and then throw it into the nearest trash can
• wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap
• clean your surroundings often, especially frequently touched areas such as door handles

If you are feeling unwell but must go out, consider wearing a face mask to protect others.