Aberdeenshire schools operating at reduced hours due to H3N2 'super flu'

A number of schools in Aberdeenshire are operating at reduced hours due to a “super flu” sweeping across Scotland.

The local authority has confirmed it is dealing with “higher than normal absences among both pupils and staff” due to an increase in influenza cases.

This comes as flu hospital admissions in Scotland surged by 70% at the beginning of the month.

This is down to a mutation of the H3N2 strain of influenza, nicknamed “super flu”. The strain causes more severe illness, particularly among older adults.

Some health boards have urged those with flu symptoms to stay at home and refrain from visiting any loved ones in hospital.

Aberdeenshire Council said that only a small number of primary and secondary schools are affected in the region.

Some pupils may be asked to stay at home and work online if it is not possible to cover absences.

A council spokesperson said: “We are monitoring the situation very closely and remain in regular contact with affected schools.

“All Aberdeenshire schools continue to follow well established health procedures and are working closely with NHS Public Health colleagues who provide ongoing guidance on the symptoms being experienced and the practical steps pupils, parents and staff can take to help limit further spread.

“Schools are working hard to ensure sufficient capacity to cover classes, but where absence levels are of concern and there is no available cover, some classes or year groups may be asked to stay at home and work online.

“Despite these challenges, our schools remain committed to protecting the well-being of pupils and staff alike, and every precaution is being taken to support healthy, well-functioning learning environments throughout the winter season.”

Some schools in England have been forced to close due to the surge in cases across the UK.

Congleton High School in Cheshire closed on November 26 and 27 after a number of flu cases.

The school posted on social media that a deep clean was carried out following discussions with the UKHSA’s North West Health Protection Team and the Infection Control Team.

What are the ‘super flu’ symptoms?

Flu symptoms develop rapidly, and you are likely to experience extreme tiredness, which helps distinguish the symptoms from a cold, where symptoms appear more gradually, according to the UKHSA.

Typical symptoms of H3N2 influenza are similar to seasonal flu and can include fever, cough, runny nose, body aches, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhoea.

People at higher risk of serious flu-related complications include:

Children under five (especially under two)
Adults aged 65 and over
Pregnant women
Those with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, or neurological disorders