Influenza cases are rising sharply across Europe, placing growing pressure on hospitals and health systems in many countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.

According to the WHO, 27 out of 38 countries in its European region are currently reporting “high or very high influenza activity,” with this year’s flu season beginning around four weeks earlier than usual compared to previous years.

In several countries, including Ireland, Serbia, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom, more than half of patients presenting with flu-like symptoms have tested positive for influenza. The early and intense spread has raised concerns among public health authorities about the capacity of healthcare systems during the winter months.

New Flu Strain Driving the Surge

Health experts say the current surge is largely being driven by a new influenza strain known as A(H3N2) sub-clade K, which accounts for up to 90 percent of confirmed flu cases across Europe. While the WHO stressed that there is no evidence the strain causes more severe illness, its rapid transmission has contributed significantly to the spike in cases.

WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Henri Kluge said the situation highlights how small genetic changes in the virus can have major impacts. “Flu comes around every winter, but this year is a little different,” he said, noting that even modest variations in the virus can place enormous strain on health systems.

Vaccination and Public Health Measures Urged

The WHO has urged the public to take preventive measures to slow transmission, including getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, and wearing masks in public when experiencing respiratory symptoms.

Kluge emphasized the importance of reliable information, warning against misinformation during the flu season. “In a challenging flu season, trustworthy, evidence-based information can be lifesaving,” he said, encouraging people to rely on national health authorities and the WHO for guidance.

Early data from the UK indicates that the flu vaccine reduces the risk of severe illness, even if it does not completely prevent infection with the A(H3N2) strain. The WHO reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective protection, particularly for older adults, pregnant women, children, people with underlying health conditions, and healthcare workers.

Pressure Mounts Across Europe

School-age children are currently the main drivers of transmission, while people aged 65 and older account for the majority of severe cases requiring hospital care. The WHO expects the flu season to peak in late December or early January.

Health authorities across Europe are already reporting mounting pressure. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has warned it is preparing for one of its most challenging winters, with increased strain on general practitioners, hospitals, and ambulance services. Germany’s Robert Koch Institute said the flu season started two to three weeks earlier than normal, while France’s health agency reported sharp rises in cases across all age groups, with growing emergency department visits.

Spain has already surpassed last winter’s peak, with infection rates higher and hospitalizations doubling within a single week. Romania and Hungary are also experiencing significant increases in flu activity, adding to regional concerns.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, Kluge stressed that the current flu season does not compare to the global emergency posed by Covid-19. He noted that health systems have decades of experience managing influenza, supported by annually updated vaccines and well-established protective measures.

“Our health systems are prepared,” Kluge said, underscoring that while the season is severe, proven tools remain available to manage its impact. (ILKHA)