A map showing flu hotspots across the UK has been revealed. The interactive map shows the areas with the worst outbreaks of the illness, according to users who upload reports themselves.
The ‘Aussie flu’ strain – also known as H3N2 – has reached the UK and is now strengthening its grip with an increasing number of cases being reported firstly in Ireland and now in the UK.
What is Aussie flu?
Known as H3N2, the Aussie Flu – a subtype of influenza A – has reportedly been blamed for more than 300 deaths in Australia, reports The Mirror , with around 170,000 cases in total.
Some A&E units Down Under were said to be “standing room only” after being inundated with people struck down by the illness.
Aussie flu mainly affects the elderly and people who are vulnerable due to long-term health conditions. Children and pregnant women are also at risk.
It can lead to pneumonia and other potentially deadly health complications.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of H3N2 can be more severe but are similar to other strains of the flu.
They can include:
- Body aches
- Coughing
- Exhaustion
- Fever
- Headache
- Minor congestion
- Sore throat
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
Doctors are warning that children – particularly those aged between five and 14 – could be most at risk.
Public health officials are urging people who are eligible for the free flu vaccination should “get it without delay”.
The data from the FluSurvey map is utilised by scientists at Public Health England and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Updated every three minutes, the map shows all types of the flu bug, including the potentially deadly Aussie flu strain which has arrived in the UK.
How does Swindon compare with the rest of the UK? You can zoom in and keep an eye on the map by clicking here.
