Flu symptoms to look out for after Christmas and how to avoid catching it as cases of 'super flu' soar
Flu can easily spread through close contact this Christmas 🤧
- Cases of the flu have been soaring after an early start to the flu season.
- The ‘super flu’ has led to a ‘worst case scenario’ situation for December.
- Flu can spread easily during the Christmas holidays.
With the festive season in full swing, there’s nothing worse than finding yourself under the weather.
Cases of the flu have been surging this winter, following an early start to the flu season. A new strain, H3N2, known as the “super flu”, is thought to be behind the increase.
The NHS have warned of a “worst case scenario” situation for December, with high demand for A&Es and ambulance services.
The flu spreads through close contact, which makes the holiday season a prime time for potentially catching and spreading the infection. As you spend time with friends and family over Christmas and the New Year, these are the symptoms of flu you shouldn’t ignore.
Why are cases of the flu rising?
The flu season arrived unusually early this year, thanks to the new flu strain, H3N2, which has been dubbed the “super flu”. It has been hitting particularly harder as it is a new strain, so there is weakened immunity and as it evolved after this year’s flu vaccine was developed.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Despite the new flu strain, the symptoms of the flu remain the same this Christmas. They can include a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, a hoarse voice, a cough or feeling tired. Additional signs can include a headache, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, tummy pain or feeling sick and being sick.
How to avoid catching the flu this Christmas?
George Sandhu, deputy superintendent at Well Pharmacy, has shared advice on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu over the holiday season.
Mr Sandhu said: “It is important to practice good ventilation if meeting people from other households, so ensure to open a window every hour for at least ten minutes to allow for fresh air to enter.
“When coughing, do so into a bent elbow to avoid spreading potentially infectious particles across a room, especially if you are aware of potentially vulnerable people in the room.
“Wash your hands frequently with warm water to avoid spreading germs and also ensure to clean frequently touched areas, including door handles.”
Cases of the flu have been surging thanks to the new H3N2 strain. You can find out more information about signs, symptoms and how to access a flu jab at NHS.UK.