Flu and COVID-19 surveillance report published
Published 3 January 2025
The latest data on flu and COVID-19 in England has been published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The report shows that:
- Flu activity is increasing and is now at levels typically seen in mid-February.
- COVID-19 activity is also increasing, with the number of cases rising in all age groups.
- The majority of flu cases are being caused by influenza A(H3N2), which is the same strain that caused the majority of cases last season.
- The majority of COVID-19 cases are being caused by the Omicron variant, which is more transmissible than previous variants.
Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “We are seeing a rise in both flu and COVID-19 activity in England. It is important to remember that both of these viruses can be serious, especially for the elderly, the very young and those with underlying health conditions.
“The best way to protect yourself from flu and COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. Vaccines are safe and effective, and they offer the best protection against both viruses.”
The flu vaccine is available free of charge to people at risk, including:
- People aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with certain underlying health conditions
- People who live in a care home
- Frontline health and social care workers
The COVID-19 vaccine is available free of charge to everyone aged 12 and over.
You can book your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations online or by calling 119.
Symptoms of flu
The symptoms of flu can include:
- A sudden high temperature
- Aching muscles
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
Symptoms of COVID-19
The symptoms of COVID-19 can include:
- A new, continuous cough
- A high temperature
- A loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell
If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19, you should:
- Stay at home and avoid contact with other people
- Get tested for COVID-19
- Follow the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional
Further information
For more information on flu, visit the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/ For more information on COVID-19, visit the GOV.UK website: www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Flu and COVID-19 surveillance report published
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