Christmas saw anticipated rise in flu, latest UKHSA data shows
- 3 January 2025
- UK Health Security Agency
Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has shown that there was an anticipated rise in flu over the Christmas period.
The data shows that the number of people testing positive for flu increased in the week leading up to Christmas, and remained high over the festive period.
The UKHSA is urging people to get vaccinated against flu if they have not already done so, as the vaccine is the best way to protect against the virus.
Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “We have seen an anticipated rise in flu over the Christmas period, which is in line with what we would expect at this time of year.
“The flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the virus, so we urge people to get vaccinated if they have not already done so.
“Flu can be a serious illness, and it can lead to hospitalisation and even death. The vaccine is safe and effective, and it can help to protect you and your loved ones from the virus.”
The flu vaccine is available free of charge to people who are at risk of developing serious complications from flu, including:
- people aged 65 and over
- people with certain long-term health conditions
- pregnant women
- people who live with someone who is at high risk of developing serious complications from flu
The flu vaccine is also available to frontline health and social care workers.
People can get the flu vaccine from their GP, a pharmacy, or a walk-in vaccination clinic.
The UKHSA is also reminding people to follow good hygiene practices to help prevent the spread of flu, such as:
- washing your hands frequently with soap and water
- covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
- binning used tissues immediately
If you think you have flu, you should stay at home and rest. You should also drink plenty of fluids and take paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve symptoms.
If your symptoms are severe, or if you are at risk of developing serious complications from flu, you should seek medical advice.
Christmas saw anticipated rise in flu, latest UKHSA data shows
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