LONDON: Hospitals across the United Kingdom and Europe are facing rising pressure as influenza cases surge earlier than usual this winter, with some media reports dubbing the situation “super flu”.
Medical experts say the term “super flu” refers to a severe seasonal outbreak driven by evolving virus strains, rather than a new type of influenza.
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS National Medical Director, described the current wave as “unprecedented” amid record demand for emergency services and an upcoming doctors’ strike.
She warned the NHS is facing a “worst-case scenario for this time of year.”
The term “super flu” is not a formal scientific designation. Influenza viruses constantly mutate to evade immunity, which is why flu vaccines are updated annually.
Some years see more significant genetic changes than others, typically every four to five years.
This season, the dominant strain is influenza A/H3N2, which has circulated since 1968 and has recently evolved into a new subclade known as K, contributing to a longer and earlier flu season in the southern hemisphere, according to Eurosurveillance and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
Global impact and early surge
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported an early rise in flu activity across several countries.
Although the H3N2 subclade K has undergone multiple genetic changes, current evidence does not suggest it causes more severe illness than previous strains.
Experts emphasise that vaccination remains the most effective protection against severe disease and hospitalisation.
In Italy, the Istituto Superiore di Sanità reported nearly 700,000 new acute respiratory infections in the first week of December, with children under four most affected.
In the UK, NHS England said an average of 2,660 patients were hospitalised with flu last week, marking the highest level for this time of year and a 55% increase from the previous week.
Why are children most affected?
Children and teenagers are more likely to be infected due to high contact rates in schools and less experienced immune systems.
Adults generally have more immunity from previous exposures, while people over 64 face higher risks from pre-existing conditions and weakened immunity.
Babies are particularly vulnerable due to undeveloped immune defences.
Vaccine protection
Vaccination remains strongly recommended for all individuals over six months. Studies indicate the flu vaccine reduces hospitalisation by 70–75% in children and 30–40% in adults.
The nasal spray used for children appears more effective than adult injections. Experts advise vaccination even after the season peaks, as the virus continues to circulate.
In Pakistan, officials note the H3N2 subclade K is also present, but the overall impact is expected to be less severe due to population structure and established seasonal patterns.
Dr Javed Akram, a former Punjab health minister, emphasised vaccination for the elderly and high-risk groups, noting it reduces influenza risk by about 70%.
Preventive measures
Public health authorities recommend standard precautions: vaccination, frequent handwashing, respiratory etiquette, and avoiding crowded spaces when ill.
Symptomatic individuals should rest, maintain hydration and nutrition, and avoid unnecessary antibiotics.
High-risk patients may benefit from antiviral treatment such as oseltamivir, according to Dr Mohammad Arshad of Lahore’s Shaikh Zayed Hospital.
