Flu signals are up earlier than usual. Health leaders warn of mounting pressure as winter approaches. Quick access to vaccination can reduce avoidable disruption for families, schools and employers.
Published: 30 October 2025
Source: UKHSA Respiratory Viruses Dashboard.
Flu Voucher Update: From November, many areas run short of pharmacy flu appointments and local vaccine stock. Doctorcall digital vouchers are delivered instantly by email after activation. Paper vouchers are posted the same day. Workplace clinics are still available from late November, but by then it may be too late.
What’s new
Early activity in children and young people
Recent data show consultation rates for flu-like illness and hospital admissions increasing week on week, led by younger adults and school-age groups.
System pressure already high
Leaders describe services “running hot” after a busy summer, warning of a long winter without early protection and sensible demand management.
Booking bottlenecks ahead
Pharmacy appointments and vaccine stock often tighten from November. Organisations that lock in access now avoid delays later in the season.
Why this matters to employers and schools
- Absence cascades quickly. Short spikes can trigger rota changes, missed deadlines and service gaps, especially in public-facing teams.
- Close-contact settings spread flu faster. Education, care, hospitality and shared offices are exposed once cases seed.
- Costs go beyond sick pay. Expect lost output, overtime cover and presenteeism if protection is delayed.
Practical takeaway: Move early. Provide rapid access with flu vouchers for immediate booking, and use on-site clinics where feasible.
Three actions to take this week
1) Secure rapid access
Order digital vouchers for instant delivery, or paper vouchers for same-day post. Redeem at 3,500+ pharmacies across the UK & Ireland.
2) Keep messaging simple
Share what’s happening, when and where, who’s eligible, and how to redeem vouchers or register. Align school drives with staff briefings for higher uptake.
3) Plan for overlap
Flu often coincides with other respiratory viruses. Early vaccination and a clear “stay home if feverish” message help steady services through peaks.
Context and signals
The latest surveillance indicates an earlier rise in flu activity, with consultations increasing from 4.2 to 5.4 per 100,000 in the week to 12 October and admissions also moving up. Leaders caution that the service enters winter with limited slack, and workforce sickness may amplify pressure if cases continue to climb.
Move fast: get vouchers now
Doctorcall offers digital vouchers (instant email delivery) and paper vouchers (posted the same day) so people can book locally without delay. Workplace clinics remain available, but securing dates may push into late November.
Buy flu vouchers
Workplace clinics
Prefer to talk to the team? Call the Flu Team on 0344 257 0644.
References
- BMJ. Flu: England braces for early wave as cases surge in children and young people. 20 Oct 2025. https://www.bmj.com/content/391/bmj.r2206
- NHS Confederation. NHS leaders deeply worried about flu season hitting early. 30 Oct 2025. https://www.nhsconfed.org/news/nhs-leaders-deeply-worried-about-flu-season-hitting-early
- UKHSA. Respiratory viruses: influenza dashboard. Accessed Oct 2025. https://ukhsa-dashboard.data.gov.uk/respiratory-viruses/influenza