HPS Monthly National Seasonal Respiratory Report - week ending 15 April 2018

In week 15, the overall assessment remains green (below baseline activity).

• GP consultation rate for influenza-like illness (ILI) remained below the baseline threshold for normal seasonal activity.
• The colour indicator for influenza in closed settings remained green (below baseline activity). Virological detections of influenza in secondary care continue to reduce. A small number of SARI cases are continuing to be reported however these are retrospective.
• In week 15, no statistically significant all-cause mortality excess was observed. It is difficult to assess the contribution of influenza to the very high* statistically significant excess in all-cause mortality reported in weeks 52, 1 and 2, but ICU mortality due to laboratory confirmed influenza remains below expected seasonal range.
• Vaccine uptake rates increased in week 15 and are similar or greater than the same time in season 2016/17.
• An increase in community circulation of influenza prompted the issue of a CMO letter in week 50 and the advice that GPs may prescribe antivirals remains in force.