Health experts are warning of one of the most severe flu seasons in years as the highly infectious H3N2 strain spreads rapidly across Britain. The variant, which caused record hospitalisations in Australia and widespread school closures in Japan, has mutated to evade existing immunity, raising fears of a sharp rise in serious illness this winter. Despite early warnings, vaccination uptake in the UK remains low, with around 40% of care home residents still unvaccinated.

The H3N2 virus is known for causing more intense symptoms, particularly higher fevers compared to other flu strains. Typical signs include a sudden onset of fever, chills, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, fatigue and headaches. The UK Health Security Agency reported that flu-related deaths in England more than doubled last winter, highlighting the growing public health concern.

While cold and flu symptoms can overlap, flu tends to strike more suddenly and severely. Colds usually involve a gradual onset of mild symptoms such as a runny nose, whereas flu can quickly lead to exhaustion and complications, especially in vulnerable groups.

Doctors are urging people to get their annual flu jab and take simple hygiene precautions — such as regular hand washing, covering coughs and avoiding crowded places — to reduce the risk of infection as the virus continues to spread.