Signs of an early flu season prompt officials to urge patients to book vaccination

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By Daniel Pye

Current trends indicate the possible signs of a second early flu season in a row, with epidemiologists urging patients to get their vaccines as soon as possible.

Flu activity throughout September has been higher than the past four winter seasons and has been rising since August but is still at very low levels, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

There are some signs of the H1N1 virus ‘drifting’ from the virus component used in this year’s vaccine.

It is too early to say whether this virus will circulate widely and how effective the vaccine will be. But the UKHSA said last year’s vaccines still gave good protection despite another flu virus drifting in the 2025/26 season.

Dr Jamie LopezBernal, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “Flu levels are increasing with the possibility of an early flu season so now is the time for those eligible to get vaccinated.”

He added: “Flu vaccines typically remain effective at preventing severe flu, even when drifted strains are seen.”