Has Public Health Scotland confirmed the flu peak has passed?

Public Health Scotland has observed declines and suggests the peak may have been passed, but cautions that more waves are possible.

What is the current status of flu deaths in Scotland?

While overall flu deaths are not higher than expected, registered deaths with flu as an underlying cause more than doubled in one recent week.

Should I still get a flu vaccine in Scotland?

Yes, Public Health Scotland urges eligible individuals to get vaccinated as multiple flu waves can occur in a season.

Home / Health / Scotland Flu Peak Passed? Experts Urge Caution

Scotland Flu Peak Passed? Experts Urge Caution

18 Dec

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Summary

Scotland's flu season began early, with a significant rise in mid-November.
While case numbers decline, experts warn of potential additional flu waves.
Flu-related deaths registered increased sharply in the week ending December 14.

Scotland Flu Peak Passed? Experts Urge Caution

Public Health Scotland has observed a reassuring decline in flu cases across various age groups and systems, suggesting the peak of the current flu season may have been surpassed. This comes after an earlier-than-usual start to the season, marked by a sharp rise in infections around mid-November.

Despite these positive signs, health officials emphasize that some flu seasons can experience multiple waves as different strains circulate. Therefore, they strongly advise individuals eligible for the flu vaccine to still seek protection this winter to remain safeguarded against potential future surges.

While Public Health Scotland reports no unexpected increase in flu-related deaths at this point, noting potential reporting delays, separate figures from the National Records of Scotland highlight a recent concerning trend. The number of registered deaths with flu as an underlying cause more than doubled in the week ending December 14, reaching 67, compared to 30 in the preceding week.