Brits have been issued a “last chance” warning as cases of flu have skyrocketed. According to the NHS, flu cases are higher than they have “ever been” at this time of year.

Concerns have also been raised about the H3N2 strain of flu currently circulating, which is thought to result in more severe illness for vulnerable people. Therefore, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged eligible people to come forward now for their vaccines. This is the “last chance” to do so to ensure you are protected for Christmas as it can take up to two weeks to develop maximum immune response.

An update from the UKHSA said: “The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging all eligible people to ensure they are vaccinated in the lead up to Christmas as rates of flu continue to rise week-on-week.

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“Flu activity increased again this week, including both hospital admission rates and the rate of positive tests. With just two weeks to go, time is running out to be protected in time for the festive period.”

Those who are eligible for the flu vaccine are those who are at a greater risk of serious complications from flu. This includes everyone over 65, those who are pregnant, or those with certain long-term health conditions.

School-aged children in reception to Year 11 are offered the vaccine through school while parents can book an appointment at their GP surgery for two and three- year-olds. Any children missing their flu vaccine in school should still be able to visit local community clinics to get protected.

Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “There is still plenty of flu vaccine available to protect those who need it – what’s running out is time to be protected ahead of Christmas. While new hospital admission rates for flu are not rising as sharply as last week, admissions are still increasing and GP attendances are rising as we continue to see the impacts of an unusually early season.

“If you are eligible this is the last chance to get protected as we head into Christmas – so make an appointment with the NHS today. If your child has missed out on their vaccination with the school immunisation team, you should still be able to get vaccinated through a community clinic over the next few weeks.

“Contact your NHS school immunisation team to find out arrangements in your area – the school should be able to provide their details if you can’t find them directly. Vaccination can make all the difference in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation for those eligible.”

The most recent data, from the week between December 1 and 7 showed that flu activity increased and is circulating at medium levels. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) showed mixed trends and is now circulating at medium levels, and COVID-19 activity showed mixed trends but continued to circulate at baseline levels.

In a post made to social media platform X, the NHS added: “NHS said: Flu cases are higher than they have ever been at this time of year. Flu can be serious for those at high risk. If you're eligible, book your flu vaccine online or via your GP, pharmacy or NHS App.”

According to the NHS, flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include:

• A sudden high temperature


• An aching body


• Feeling tired or exhausted


• A dry cough


• A sore throat


• A headache


• Difficulty sleeping


• Loss of appetite


• Diarrhoea or tummy pain


• Feeling sick and being sick

You should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities.