HPS Monthly National Seasonal Respiratory Report - week ending 21 January 2018

In week 3, the overall assessment remains amber (moderate season activity).

• There has been a small reduction in the GP consultation rates for ILI which is suggestive that we have now passed the peak in GP consultations.
• There is evidence that virological detections of influenza in secondary care peaked in week 52 and are continuing to decrease. Influenza B detections are increasing in primary care settings.
• 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 have increased. 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.