What is the NHS doing to prepare for the flu season?

The NHS has launched an "SOS campaign" to encourage people to get their flu shots, making 2.4 million vaccination appointments available next week across the country.

How severe is the flu expected to be this year?

Doctors warn this could be the "most severe flu outbreak in decades", with the current dominant H3N2 strain having mutated and evaded immunity from past vaccines.

Home / Health / Doctors Warn of Severe Flu Outbreak, Urge Vaccination Ahead of Winter

Doctors Warn of Severe Flu Outbreak, Urge Vaccination Ahead of Winter

Q: Why is Doctor Hilary Jones concerned about the flu this year?

Doctor Hilary Jones explains that the H3N2 strain has developed seven mutations over the summer, meaning those who got vaccinated last year may not be adequately protected.

15 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Flu hospitalizations already rising, hitting levels not seen until December
Current dominant H3N2 strain has mutated, evading immunity from past vaccines
NHS launches SOS campaign, offering 2.4 million vaccination appointments next week

Doctors Warn of Severe Flu Outbreak, Urge Vaccination Ahead of Winter

As of November 15th, 2025, health experts are urgently warning the public about the potential for a severe flu outbreak this winter. Hospital admissions for the H3N2 strain have already started rising, reaching levels typically not seen until December.

The NHS is bracing for a difficult winter season, concerned that many of the most vulnerable individuals may not have received their flu vaccine yet. Doctor Hilary Jones has explained that the current dominant H3N2 strain has developed seven mutations over the summer, meaning those who got vaccinated last year may not be adequately protected.