flu

Are we seeing an early flu season? What we know so far about this year's strains

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: flu, Winter
Man lying in bed in darkened room

Early signs suggest that flu season may be starting earlier this year. According to our winter virus surveillance data, flu activity throughout September has been higher than in the same period over the past 4 winters. While levels remain at baseline, meaning still relatively low overall, the upward trend if it continues in the coming …

How to avoid freshers' flu at university, and spot the warning signs of meningitis

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: flu, Meningitis
Young woman having a hot drink and blowing her nose

'Freshers' flu' is a common name for a collection of cold viruses that typically spread rapidly when students arrive at university. It's unpleasant but rarely serious, though sometimes it may be genuine flu. Flu is more than just a bad cold and can be particularly serious for people with long-term health conditions, even when those …

Your guide to who’s eligible for the autumn 2026 flu vaccine  

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: flu, immunisations
Woman helping a small child to drink out of a cup of water

Flu season is approaching, and some people can already book their free NHS flu vaccine. Here's everything you need to know about who can get vaccinated this year, what's changed since last autumn, and whether you need to be concerned about the so-called ‘Super-K strain’ that circulated last season.

How to avoid catching flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses this winter 

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Coronavirus (COVID-19), flu, Winter
Man with a beard blowing his nose on a tissue

As we brace ourselves for chillier days and look forward to more indoor gatherings and seasonal social events with friends and family, now is the ideal time to remind ourselves of behaviours that can reduce the spread of respiratory infections …

How flu and COVID vaccines will help you have a healthy pregnancy in winter 2023

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Coronavirus (COVID-19), flu
Smiling pregnant woman

Flu and COVID-19 can be unpleasant for most people, but if you're pregnant, it's particularly important to get vaccinated to protect both you and your baby. We recommend that all pregnant women get flu and COVID-19 vaccines in the coming …