Flu season could kick off ‘incredibly’ early - what scientists are watching
Scientists are observing an unusually early start to the influenza season in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly with the H1N1 subtype. While it is too early to predict the severity of the season, researchers are monitoring emerging mutations and rising case numbers.
Why it matters
Early flu outbreaks can overwhelm healthcare systems and necessitate adjustments to public health vaccination strategies.
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Bluesky Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Whatsapp X Save article View saved research A variant of the H1N1 influenza virus is dominating flu season in the Northern Hemisphere so far this year. Shown here are H1N1 influenza virus particles (yellow) releasing from an infected lung cell (green). Credit: Science Photo Library
Data show that flu season in the Northern Hemisphere might be off to an early start — prompting a rethink about when people should get their annual vaccines against the influenza virus . The percentage of positive tests for influenza is unusually high for this time of the year in places such as the United Kingdom and on the West Coast of the United States (see ‘Surprising start’). In Japan, outbreaks in August and early September forced some schools to close just as they were starting back up after the summer break.
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