Flu Cases and Hospital Admissions Fall Across Scotland
Flu cases have decreased significantly in Scotland, with a 20% drop in the week leading up to December 14th, according to official health data. Public Health Scotland (PHS) reported a decline in laboratory-confirmed cases from 2,410 to 1,918, and a corresponding reduction in hospitalisations during the same period.
The number of flu-related hospital admissions fell by 12%, from 912 to 805. However, a concerning trend emerged as deaths with flu listed as an underlying cause more than doubled in the latest reporting week.
Despite this, PHS suggests that Scotland may have already passed its peak flu season, but they caution that multiple waves of flu can occur throughout the season. They strongly recommend that eligible individuals still receive the flu vaccine.
Scotland's flu season began earlier than usual, with a sharp increase in mid-November. Experts had predicted a prolonged flu season due to a new, more easily spread variant of the virus.
Dr. Kim Marsh, Viral Respiratory Pathogens lead at PHS, noted, "While each flu season is unique and peak times are unpredictable, we've observed encouraging declines across various demographics and systems, including reduced case numbers and activity levels in younger age groups."
Dr. Marsh added, "It's important to acknowledge that, although we may have surpassed the peak, flu seasons can experience multiple waves due to the circulation of different flu types at different times. Therefore, there's still an opportunity to get protected if you're eligible for the flu vaccine this winter."
For more information on vaccination, visit nhsinform.scot/flu.
PHS's latest report indicates no significant increase in flu-related deaths beyond what's typically expected at this stage, but they acknowledge reporting delays. However, additional figures from the National Records of Scotland reveal a recent rise in flu-related deaths.
In the week ending December 14th, 67 deaths were registered with flu as an underlying cause, more than double the previous week's 30 deaths.
Despite the positive signs, experts caution that the number of flu deaths may continue to rise for a few weeks. They attribute Scotland's early decline to various factors, including a mid-September vaccination program, acquired immunity from previous outbreaks, and residual vaccine immunity.
While Christmas travel and gatherings may trigger a potential second wave, experts remain optimistic that the trend will persist, and case numbers will continue to decrease.
The flu vaccine is recommended as the most effective protection against the virus, particularly for individuals at higher risk of severe illness from the flu, including all children, those aged 65 and over, and people aged 18 to 64 with eligible health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
Individuals not eligible for an NHS flu jab can opt for private vaccinations at pharmacies, where they are available at a cost of around £18 to £20.
