A significant surge in influenza cases driven by a new virus strain is currently impacting healthcare systems across Europe. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on December 6, 2023, that at least 27 of the 38 countries in its European region are experiencing “high or very high influenza activity.” Notably, over half of patients exhibiting flu-like symptoms tested positive in six countries, including Ireland, Serbia, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom.
The WHO indicated that this flu season began approximately four weeks earlier than in previous years. To mitigate transmission, the organization urged individuals to get vaccinated, remain at home if feeling unwell, and wear masks in public settings if they exhibit respiratory symptoms. The current wave of infections is primarily attributed to the new seasonal flu variant, known as A(H3N2) sub-clade K, which is responsible for up to 90% of confirmed flu cases in the region. Importantly, the WHO clarified that there is no evidence suggesting this strain causes more severe illness compared to its predecessors.
Hans Henri Kluge, the WHO’s regional director for Europe, expressed concern about the impact of the influenza virus. He stated, “Flu comes around every winter, but this year is a little different. It shows how just a small genetic variation in the flu virus can place enormous pressure on our health systems.” Kluge also highlighted the risks posed by misinformation regarding the virus and vaccination. He emphasized the necessity of seeking accurate information from reliable sources, such as national health agencies and the WHO, particularly during a challenging flu season.
Preliminary data from the UK supports the effectiveness of the flu vaccine in reducing the risk of severe illness associated with the A(H3N2) strain, although it may not completely prevent infection. The WHO reiterated that vaccination remains the most crucial preventive measure, especially for those at higher risk, including older adults, individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and children. Health workers also fall within the priority group to safeguard their health and that of their patients.
The WHO noted that school-age children are major contributors to community spread, while adults aged 65 and older make up the majority of severe cases that require hospitalization. Kluge projected that the flu season is likely to peak in late December or early January. He reassured the public that while this flu season is serious, it does not equate to the global emergency experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. “Our health systems have decades of experience managing influenza, we have safe vaccines that are updated annually, and we have a clear playbook of protective measures that work,” he stated.
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) has indicated that it is preparing for one of the most challenging winters on record due to increased pressure on general practitioner surgeries, hospitals, and ambulance services. The Robert Koch Institute in Germany reported that the country’s flu season commenced two to three weeks earlier than usual. In metropolitan France, the national public health agency, Santé publique, identified a “strong increase” in flu activity across all age groups, leading to a rise in the number of individuals seeking treatment at emergency departments.
Spain is experiencing infection rates that surpass last winter’s peak, with hospitalizations doubling within a week. Additionally, both Romania and Hungary are facing significant increases in flu cases. As Europe grapples with this new flu strain, health authorities continue to advocate for vaccination and adherence to public health guidelines to safeguard the population’s health.
