UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) surveillance data indicates that influenza is circulating in the community earlier than usual this season with a drifted strain of Influenza A(H3N2) predominating.

Clinicians should continue to promote and deliver influenza vaccination for eligible patients and healthcare workers.

Clinicians are also reminded that early antiviral treatment reduces the risk of complications and improves clinical outcomes. 

Further information and actions for clinicians are provided in the following UKHSA resources:

• UKHSA Letter 
• UKHSA Briefing note 

Oseltamivir can be prescribed at any time of year for eligible patients (no longer restricted to "flu in circulation" periods):

• prescribe for patients in clinical at-risk groups or those at risk of severe illness/complications from influenza
• prescription must be endorsed "Selected List Scheme" (SLS)
• follow UKHSA guidance for treatment (within 48hours of symptom onset) and post-exposure prophylaxis (within 48hours of exposure).

At-risk groups include:

• chronic respiratory, cardiac, renal, hepatic, or neurological disease
• diabetes mellitus
• severe immunosuppression
• age over 65 years
• pregnancy (including up to 2 weeks post-partum)
• children under 6 months of age
• morbid obesity (BMI ≥40)

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