Flu is on the rise – and it’s hitting earlier than usual

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the RCGP, warns that the latest data from the RCGP’s Research and Surveillance Centre shows high levels of flu and respiratory illnesses earlier than expected this winter and offers advice to protect vulnerable groups and reduce pressure on the NHS.

It’s only early November, but many GP surgeries across the country are already seeing what feels like midwinter levels of coughs, colds and flu.

The latest data from the RCGP’s Research and Surveillance Centre show that rates of presentations of influenza-like illness in general practice remain above the seasonal average for this time of year and are continuing to climb across most regions and age groups. This is particularly the case among children under 5, with flu-like illness rising since last week and now sitting at over twice the national average. It’s an early warning sign that flu and other respiratory viruses are beginning to take hold sooner than expected.

As GPs, we see this trend reflected in our surgeries every day. While for most, these winter illnesses will pass with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medication, for others they can be far more serious. Older people, babies and young children, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions are all at higher risk of developing complications that may require hospitalisation.

That’s why getting the flu vaccination is more crucial than ever. The flu jab – and the Covid booster where eligible – are free for those in at-risk groups. GPs and practice teams up and down the country are working hard to vaccinate as many patients as possible and we would urge everyone who is eligible and hasn’t yet had theirs yet to come forward as soon as possible.

Getting vaccinated doesn’t only protect you from a nasty bout of flu, but also helps to protect your family, friends and our community. Each flu jab helps reduce the spread and limit outbreaks that could otherwise put further pressure on NHS services as we move deeper into winter.

For most patients who do catch flu or a cold, the best advice is simple: rest, keep warm, stay hydrated, and manage symptoms with paracetamol or other over-the-counter remedies - your local pharmacist can advise on which remedies may help. But if symptoms worsen or you’re concerned about your health – particularly if you’re in one of the vulnerable groups – seek medical advice.

It’s important that we all recognise the benefits of looking after ourselves, for our own health and the public’s health. GP teams are working hard to provide the care our patients need and, as we move into what could be a challenging winter, everyone can play a part in keeping our communities healthy, and getting your flu jab is one of the simplest and most effective ways to do that.

Further information

RSC Communicable and Respiratory Disease report for England (PDF file, 6.4 MB)

RCGP press office: 0203 188 7659
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 54,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.