The NHS is bracing itself today as it emerged that the current flu epidemic, which is already set to be the worst Britain has experienced in eight years, is set to get worse as a deadly Australian strain of the virus spreads.
The European Influenza Surveillance Scheme has published a report warning that flu is going to reach epidemic levels across Europe over the coming weeks. They have drawn attention to the fact that the most common strain in circulation is Brisburn 10, which in 2007 killed 6 children and caused a three-fold rise in flu cases in Australia.
The situation is being worsened because we are reaching the traditional 'peak' flu season, the months between January and March. However, already the UK Health Protection Agency and the Royal College of GPs have noted a sharp increase in the number of cases with flu-like symptoms. The rise in flu cases has co-incided with outbreaks of the winter vomiting bug Norovirus, putting health services under even greater strain.
We have not yet reached epidemic proportions, classified as when the rate of cases exceeds 200 amongst every 100,000 consultations. The rate is currently at about 68 cases per 100,000 consultations. Doctors are encouraging those groups at risk to have the flu vaccine, which provides protection against the strains in circulation and are authorised to prescribe anti-virals, which combat the flu symptoms.
A Department of Health spokesperson has recommended the flu vaccine as the best protection against the illness. "The best protection against flu is to have the flu jab...its not too late." They added, "There are simple steps that everyone can take to help prevent catching colds and flu. Always use a tissue to catch your sneezes, throw away use tissues...and regularly wash your hands."
And if you were unlucky enough to catch it - drink lots of fluid, take medicines like paracetamol or aspirin and then retire to the sofa to watch Christmas telly, moan a lot and make your family run around after you.