viruses circulating this season by antigenic and genetic analysis, and has found evidence of drift compared to the A(H3N2) virus strain in the flu vaccine.

It’s not possible to fully predict the strains

Antiviral drugs are available and effective, and doctors should prescribe them for those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill due to flu.

influenza activity is stabilising, but evidence of significant excess mortality, particularly in the elderly, continues to be seen, with more deaths than expected at this time of the year.

importance of early prescribing of antivirals for vulnerable groups to reduce the risk of serious illness.

similarity between circulating influenza viruses

None of the VE estimates by age

the flu vaccine is having a

small effect

insufficient samples sizes