HPS Monthly National Seasonal Respiratory Report - week ending 18 February 2018

In week 7, the overall assessment remains yellow (normal season activity).

• There has been an increase in the GP consultation rates for ILI which brings it above the threshold for normal seasonal activity.
• The colour indicator for influenza in closed settings remains yellow (normal season activity). There is continuing reductions in virological detections of influenza in secondary care.
• In week 7, 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 within normal seasonal range.
• Vaccine uptake rates increased in week 7. It’s not too late to be vaccinated - vaccination of those eligible for seasonal influenza remains the most important preventative measure to reduce influenza.
• 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.