Understanding the Current Flu Outbreak: Symptoms and Precautions
An expert from the University of Oxford has highlighted why the current flu wave is causing a surge in illnesses among children, leading to crowded hospitals in Ireland. James Hay, a Research Fellow in Infectious Diseases Modelling, has explained the severity of this year’s flu outbreak and the necessary precautions to take.
Flu Characteristics and Vulnerable Groups
Hay stated that the dominant flu subtype this year, influenza A/H3N2, has been present since 1968, with similar outbreaks occurring periodically. He noted that children and teenagers are more susceptible due to their frequent interactions in schools and less experienced immune systems.
Adults are generally less prone to infection because of lower contact rates and more robust immune systems. However, those over 64 face higher risks due to pre-existing health conditions and weakened immunity, a process known as immunosenescence.
Infants are also at higher risk as their immune systems are still developing. Age-related immunity gaps may explain why certain groups are more affected during specific seasons.
Rising Flu Cases in Ireland
Flu cases and hospital admissions are rapidly increasing across Ireland. The Health Service Executive (HSE) is urging anyone with symptoms to isolate to prevent further spread.
The HSE reports high flu activity, with a 49% increase in cases to 2,944 between November 30 and December 6. Emergency Department visits rose by 55% to 1,622, and hospitalisations increased from 415 to 657, notably among those under 15 and over 65.
Influenza A(H3N2) is the prevalent virus this season, posing significant risks to older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Advice and Symptoms
The HSE advises staying home if unwell and avoiding visits to vulnerable individuals or healthcare settings. They emphasize not visiting care homes or hospitals for social visits when symptomatic. For medications, it is recommended to have someone else collect them from the pharmacy.
The HSE has listed 10 key flu symptoms to watch for:
- A sudden high temperature of 38 degrees or above
- Aches and pains
- 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
Children may also experience ear pain and reduced activity levels. Most individuals recover within a week, though symptoms like cough and fatigue may persist longer.
Serious Cases and Red Flags
While most flu cases resolve on their own, some can become severe, especially in older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health issues. Contact a GP if a child exhibits symptoms like increased breathlessness, pain during breathing, confusion, or dehydration.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if a child shows critical signs like pale or blue skin, severe breathing difficulties, or unusual lethargy.
Vaccination and Prevention
James Hay emphasized that the flu vaccine can reduce hospitalisation risks by 30 to 40% in older adults and is even more effective in children. Vaccination remains the best protection against the flu.
The flu vaccine is recommended and free for those over 60, individuals with underlying conditions, healthcare workers, children aged 2 to 17, pregnant women, carers, and others in close contact with high-risk groups.
Hay advises getting vaccinated promptly, as it provides crucial protection even after the epidemic peak. The flu vaccine is crucial for reducing the spread and impact of the virus.
