Summary
Some schools in the UK have brought back measures similar to those used during the Covid-19 pandemic to manage a rise in flu cases. These measures include closing schools temporarily and reducing group activities to prevent the spread of the flu. Officials report a significant increase in respiratory illness incidents in schools compared to last year.
Key Facts
- Schools in the UK are experiencing a rise in flu cases and have reinstated Covid-like measures.
- One school in Leeds reduced singing in assemblies; another in Caerphilly closed temporarily.
- Between 24 and 30 November, there were 107 respiratory incidents in UK schools.
- Of these incidents, 17 were confirmed as flu, while 2 were due to Covid.
- The number of respiratory incidents this year is higher compared to only 15 recorded in the same week last year.
- A new strain of flu virus, the H3N2 "subclade K" variant, is spreading.
- Schools are advised to keep rooms ventilated and remind students about vaccinations and handwashing.
- Pupils in England can receive a flu vaccine through nasal spray at school.
