Flu cases in Scotland more than double as hospital admissions surge by 70%

Key Points

Hospital admissions surge by 70% in a week
Confirmed cases more than double in same period
Cases reach ‘very high level’ in five to 14 age group
Seven deaths registered with flu as underlying cause

The number of flu hospital admissions in Scotland has surged by 70% in the last week as the number of confirmed cases more than doubled.

Hospital admissions rose from 426 to 724 between November 24 to 30, while laboratory-confirmed flu cases rose from 845 to 1,759, Public Health Scotland (PSH) figures show.

Cases have increased in all groups, but have reached a higher intensity in ages one to four and have been described as at a “very high” level in the five to 14 age groups.

Those aged 65 and over make up around 40% of all hospital admissions, with those aged 75 and over representing the highest proportion.

This is down to a mutation of the H3N2 strain of influenza, which is known for causing more severe illness, particularly among older adults.

The number of people visiting their GP for flu-like illnesses has increased, with the number of consultations exceeding the medium threshold three weeks earlier than last season.

Provisional death registrations with flu listed as an underlying cause increased from five to seven. During the same time period in previous seasons, there were two or fewer flu deaths registered.

Dr Kim Marsh, Viral Respiratory Pathogens lead at Public Health Scotland, said: “Flu can seriously disrupt anyone’s life but, for some people, flu hits harder.

“With case numbers of flu having risen again in the past week, we’re continuing to encourage those who are eligible to come forward to receive their flu vaccine. Vaccination remains the best way to help protect yourself against serious illness from flu.”

Who should get vaccinated:

Pregnant women, to protect themselves and their babies.
NHS staff and frontline social care workers.
Children from 2 years old to the end of secondary school, and children aged 6 months to 2 years with underlying health conditions.

PHS also advises that anyone with flu-like symptoms stay home from work, school, or hospital settings to prevent further spread. Regular handwashing and hygiene measures are also recommended.

Dr Marsh added: “NHS Boards in Scotland are working at pace to deliver the winter vaccination programme and look forward to welcoming you for your appointment. 

“For more information regarding eligibility and to book, or rearrange, your appointment visit nhsinform.scot/flu”