UKHSA sees possible signs of early flu season and urges eligible people to get vaccinated

UKHSA said flu activity increased to baseline levels in week 40 (28 September and 4 October 2026) and urged people eligible for vaccination to get vaccinated. Flu positivity was 6.5%, compared with 5% the previous week, and hospitalisations were 1.97 per 100,000. The agency said flu activity throughout September was higher than in the same period in each of the past 4 winter seasons, with possible signs of an early season.

UKHSA said increases were being driven by young adults. Available subtype data showed an equal mix of A(H3N2) and A(H1N1) in England. The agency said it was too early to know whether the drifted A(H1N1) virus would circulate widely or how effective the vaccine would be against it, but that flu vaccines typically remain effective at preventing severe flu when drifted strains are seen. The BMJ reported that, for the second year in a row, it looked as if the flu season had started early in England. Eligible people can book a free vaccine through the NHS App, online, or by contacting a GP practice or local pharmacy.