HPA National Influenza Weekly Reports 2008/09
The HPA National Influenza ReportA full report of the 2008/09 season is available in the Health Protection Report
The weekly and daily reports made available over the summer of 2009 and the 2009/10 winter season are published on the swine flu pages.
Further information is available on the HPA National Influenza Graphs 2009/2010.
If you would like to receive an e-mail alert when the weekly national influenza report is published, please submit your name and e-mail address to: respcdsc@hpa.org.uk
Influenza Reports for 2008/09
Report 18: Reporting period: Weeks 14 & 15 (30/03/09 - 12/04/09) - published week 16 (15/04/09)
Influenza activity is low across the UK. In weeks 14 and 15/09 GP consultation rates decreased and remained below baseline levels in England and Wales. In Scotland the rate increased slightly but remains below baseline levels. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate remains at low levels, but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportions of cold/flu and fever calls to NHS direct in England and Wales remain low.
In week 15/09, three specimens tested positive for influenza virus (one A (H3) and two B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported seven influenza B positive specimens in week 15/09. There were no influenza-positive specimens reported from Scotland in week 15/09. One respiratory disease outbreak was reported in week 15/09 in north west England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74.1% in week 05/09, and 47.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 678 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
Most countries in Europe reported decreasing or baseline influenza activity in week 14/09 and total influenza virus detections have been declining since week 04/2009.
This is the final weekly report of this season, a full season summary will be published as soon as possible.
Antiviral drug susceptibility testing: Since week 40/08 all of the 237 influenza A (H3) isolates tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Eighty-six influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 85 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Fifty-five influenza B specimens have been tested and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 18: Reporting period weeks 14 & 15 (30/03/09 - 12/04/09) (PDF, 160 KB)
Report 17: Reporting period: Weeks 12 & 13 (16/03/09 - 29/03/09) - published week 14 (01/04/09)
Influenza activity is low across the UK.
In weeks 12 and 13/09 GP consultation rates decreased and remained below baseline levels in England and Wales. In Scotland the rate stayed constant and below baseline levels. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased and remains at low levels, but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportions of cold/flu and fever calls to NHS direct in England and Wales remain low.
In week 13/09, ten specimens tested positive for influenza virus (two A (H3) and eight B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported two influenza A, and sixteen influenza B positive specimens in week 13/09. Five Scottish influenza B-positive specimens were reported in week 13/09. Three respiratory disease outbreaks were reported in week 12/09 in England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74.1% in week 05/09, and 47.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 658 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
In western Europe the seasonal epidemic is over, but several countries in other parts of Europe reported medium intensity activity in week 12/09. Influenza B virus detections are currently dominant in over 50% of the countries.
Antiviral drug susceptibility testing: Since week 40/08 all of the 229 influenza A (H3) isolates tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Eighty-six influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 85 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Thirty-five influenza B specimens have been tested and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 17: Reporting period weeks 12 & 13 (16/03/09 - 22/03/09) (PDF, 157 KB)
Report 16: Reporting period: Weeks 10 & 11 (02/03/09 - 15/03/09) - published week 12 (18/03/09)
Influenza activity is low across the UK.
In weeks 10 and 11/09 GP consultation rates decreased and remained below baseline levels in England. In Scotland the rate stayed constant and below baseline levels. The Welsh influenza rate has increased slightly but is still below the baseline. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased and remains at low levels, but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportions of cold/flu and fever calls to NHS direct in England and Wales remain low.
In week 11/09, seven specimens tested positive for influenza virus (one A (H1), four A (H3) and two B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported two influenza A, and nine influenza B positive specimens in week 11/09. Eight Scottish influenza-positive specimens were reported in week 11/09. Two influenza B outbreaks have been reported in the last two weeks in England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74.1% in week 05/09, and 47.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 623 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
In week 10/09 most countries in central/eastern Europe reported medium influenza intensity while activity continued to decline to low levels in western Europe. While influenza A(H3) was still the predominant circulating virus, the proportion of influenza B virus detections continued to increase.
Since week 40/08 all of the 229 influenza A (H3) isolates tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Eighty-six influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 85 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Thirty-five influenza B specimens have been tested and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 16: Reporting period weeks 10 & 11 (02/03/09 - 15/03/09) (PDF, 157 KB)
Report 15: Reporting period: Weeks 08 & 09 (16/02/09 - 01/03/09) - published week 10 (04/03/09)
Influenza activity is low across the UK.
In weeks 08 and 09/09 GP consultation rates decreased and remained below baseline levels in England. In Scotland and Wales the rates increased slightly but remain below baseline levels. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has also increased but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportions of cold/flu and fever calls to NHS direct in England and Wales remain below baseline levels.
In week 09/09, four specimens tested positive for influenza virus (one A (H1) and three B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 10 influenza A, and 22 influenza B positive specimens in week 09/09. Eleven Scottish and two Northern Irish influenza-positive specimens were reported in week 09/09. No outbreaks have been reported in the last two weeks. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74.1% in week 05/09, and 47.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 623 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
Most countries in central Europe continue to report medium intensity activity, and activity is low but increasing in eastern Europe. Influenza activity is generally declining in western Europe. Influenza A(H3) continues to be the predominant circulating virus although the proportion of influenza B virus detections continues to increase.
Anti-viral drug susceptibility testing: Since week 40/08 all of the 193 influenza A (H3) isolates tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Eighty-six influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 85 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Twenty-two influenza B specimens have been tested and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 15: Reporting period weeks 08 & 09 (16/02/09 - 01/03/09) (PDF, 156 KB)
Report 14: Reporting period: Weeks 06 & 07 (02/02/09 - 15/02/09) - published week 08 (18/02/09)
Influenza activity is low across the UK.
In weeks 06 and 07/09 GP consultation rates decreased and remained below baseline levels in England, Wales and Scotland. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportion of cold/flu to NHS direct in England and Wales remains below baseline levels, the proportion of fever calls in 5-14 year olds has increased slightly, but remains below the baseline threshold.
In week 07/09, 12 specimens tested positive for influenza virus (three A (H1), four A (H3) and five B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 12 influenza A, and 10 influenza B positive specimens in week 07/09. Six Scottish and three Northern Irish influenza-positive specimens were reported in weeks 06 and 07/09. No outbreaks have been reported in the last two weeks. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74.1% in week 05/09, and 47.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 606 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
Influenza activity continued to intensify across central Europe, with most countries reporting medium to high intensity. Influenza activity is generally declining in western Europe and is low to medium in eastern Europe.
The WHO has announced the recommendations for the 2009/10 northern hemisphere influenza vaccine.
Since week 40/08 all of the 193 influenza A (H3) isolates that have been tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Sixty-two influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 61 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Eighteen influenza B specimens have been tested and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 14: Reporting period weeks 06 & 07 (02/02/09 - 15/02/09) (PDF, 159 KB)
Report 13: Reporting period: Week 05 (26/01/09 - 01/02/09) - published week 06 (04/02/09)
Influenza activity is decreasing across the UK.
In week 05/09 GP consultation rates decreased and remained below baseline levels in England and Scotland. In Wales the rate has increased slightly but remains below baseline. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportions of cold/flu and fever calls to NHS direct in England and Wales have decreased, and remain below baseline levels.
In week 05/09, 21 specimens tested positive for influenza virus (three A (H1), 14 A (H3) and four B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 66 influenza A, and 16 influenza B positive specimens in week 04/09. Nineteen Scottish and four Northern Irish influenza-positive specimens were reported in week 05/09. No respiratory disease outbreaks have been reported recently. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74.1% in week 05/09, and 47.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 539 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
Influenza activity continued to intensify and spread across Europe, with most countries reporting medium to high intensity in week 04/09.
Full reports will now be published fortnightly, with a summary in alternate weeks, unless activity increases again.
Since week 40/08 all of the influenza A (H3) isolates that have been tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Forty-three influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 42 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Twelve influenza B specimens have been tested and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 13: Reporting period: week 05 (26/01/09 - 01/02/09) (PDF, 155 KB)
Report 12: Reporting period: Week 04 (19/01/09 - 25/01/09) - published week 05 (28/01/09)
Influenza activity is decreasing across the UK.
In week 04/09 GP consultation rates decreased to below threshold levels in England and Scotland. In Wales the rate has decreased and remains below baseline. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportions of cold/flu and fever calls to NHS direct in England and Wales have decreased, and remain below baseline levels.
In week 04/09, 31 specimens tested positive for influenza virus (two influenza A (H1), 23 influenza A (H3) and six influenza B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 42 influenza A, and four influenza B positive specimens in week 04/09. Thirty-nine Scottish and 10 Northern Irish influenza-positive specimens were reported in week 04/09. Three outbreaks of laboratory confirmed influenza A were reported recently in care homes in southern England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 74% in week 04/09, and 46.8% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 472 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
Influenza activity continued to intensify and spread across Europe, with most countries reporting medium to high intensity in week 03/04.
Since week 40/08 all of the influenza A (H3) isolates that have been tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Thirty-eight influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 37 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. 12 influenza B specimens have been tested and both were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 12: Reporting period: week 04 (19/01/09 - 25/01/09) (PDF, 155 KB)
Report 11: Reporting period: Week 03 (12/01/09 - 18/01/09) - published week 04 (21/01/09)
Influenza activity is decreasing across the UK.
In week 03/09 GP consultation rates remained above the threshold levels but have decreased in England and Scotland. In Wales the rate has increased slightly but remains below baseline. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased but thresholds have not yet been set. The proportion of cold/flu calls to NHS direct in England and Wales has decreased, and the proportion of fever calls in those aged 5-14 has increased slightly but remains below baseline.
In week 03/09 48 specimens tested positive for influenza virus (six influenza A (H1), 39 influenza A (H3) and three influenza B) at the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 95 influenza A, and three influenza B positive specimens in week 03/09. Seventy-six Scottish and 13 Northern Irish influenza positive specimens were reported in week 03/09. Six outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported recently in care homes, a hospital and a school in different parts of England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 73.9% in week 03/09, and 46.5% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 375 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched to the current influenza vaccine.
Most European countries reported influenza activity of medium intensity with only a limited number of countries, mostly in east and north east Europe, reporting low influenza activity in week 02/09.
Anti-viral drug susceptibility: Since week 40/08 all of the influenza A (H3) isolates that have been tested for drug sensitivity have been found to be sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir, but resistant to amantadine. Forty influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance, 39 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine.Two influenza B specimens have been tested so far and both were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 11: Reporting period week 03 (12/01/09 - 18/01/09) (PDF, 155 KB)
Report 10: Reporting period: Week 02 (05/01/09 - 11/01/09) - published week 03 (14/01/09)
Influenza activity continues to be widespread across the UK. In week 01/09 GP consultation rates remained above the threshold levels but have decreased in England, in Scotland the rate is above baseline and has increased and in Wales it has decreased and remains below baseline. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased but thresholds have not yet been set.
In week 01/09 70 specimens tested positive for influenza (four influenza A (H1), 61influenza A (H3) and five influenza B) from the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 168 influenza A, and four influenza B positive specimens in week 02/09. Forty-two Scottish and 25 Northern Irish influenza positive specimens were reported in week 02/09. Seven outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported recently in care homes the east of England and London. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 73.6% in week 02/09, and 46.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 347 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched by the current influenza vaccine. Influenza activity is reported to be increasing throughout the rest of Europe with two countries reporting ' high' level and 11 countries reporting 'medium' levels of influenza activity in week 01/09.
Anti-viral resistance testing: Since week 40/08 101 influenza A (H3) specimens have been found resistant to amantadine, of these 74 have been tested and found sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. Forty influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance since week 40/08, 39 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. Two influenza B specimens have been tested so far and were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 10: Reporting period: week 02 (05/01/09 - 11/01/09) (PDF, 154 KB)
Report 9: Reporting period: Week 01 (29/12/08 - 04/01/09) - published week 02 (07/01/09)
Influenza activity continues to be widespread across the UK. GP consultation rates remained above the threshold levels in England and Scotland in week 01/09. In England the rate has increased from week 52/08 to week 01/09 but is lower than the week 51/08 peak; data from week 01/09 is also incomplete due to the new year bank holiday so it is difficult to interpret. In Scotland the consultation rate has increased and in Wales it has decreased and has remained below baseline. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has increased to a similar level to the peak of week 51/08 but thresholds have not yet been set. In week 01/09 90 specimens tested positive for influenza (three influenza A (H1), 81influenza A (H3) and six influenza B) from the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 200 influenza A, and one influenza B positive specimen in week 01/09. Fifty-five Scottish and 45 Northern Irish influenza positive specimens were reported in week 01/09. Eight outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported recently in care homes, a school and two hospital units in England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 72% in week 50/08, and 44.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 218 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched by the current influenza vaccine. Influenza activity is reported to be increasing throughout the rest of Europe with one country reporting ' high' level and six countries reporting 'medium' levels of influenza activity in week 51/08.
Anti-viral drug susceptibility testing: Forty influenza A (H1) specimens have been tested for anti-viral drug resistance since week 40/08, 39 of these were resistant to oseltamivir and all were sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. One hundred and one influenza A (H3) specimens have been found resistant to amantadine, of these 74 have been tested and found sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. Two influenza B specimens have been tested so far and were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 09: Reporting period: week 01 (29/12/08 - 04/01/09) (PDF, 153 KB)
Report 8: Reporting period: Week 52 (22/12/08 - 28/12/08) - published week 01 (31/12/08)
Influenza activity continues to be widespread across the UK. GP consultation rates remained above the threshold levels in England and Scotland in week 52/08. Rates decreased in England, which may be due to the incomplete data during the Christmas holiday period, but increased in Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has decreased in week 52/08 compared to last week (week 51/08) but thresholds have not yet been set. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections’ Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during week 52/08, 102 were positive for influenza A; four A (H1) and 98 A (H3), and five for influenza B. Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 145 influenza A and ten influenza B positive specimens in week 52/08. Twenty-four Scottish and 14 Northern Irish influenza positive specimens were reported in week 52. One outbreak of respiratory illness was reported recently in a care home in England. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season’s influenza vaccine was 72% in week 50/08, and 44.2% in those aged under 65 years in risk groups. Characterisation of 218 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched by the current influenza vaccine. Influenza activity is reported to be increasing throughout the rest of Europe with one country reporting ‘ high’ level and four countries reporting ‘medium’ levels of influenza activity in week 51/08.
Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing was not carried out during this Christmas - New Year holiday period.
Report 08: Reporting Period: week 52 (22/12/08 - 28/12/08) (PDF, 154 KB)
Report 7: Reporting period: Week 51 (15/12/08 - 21/12/08) - published week 52 (24/12/08)
Influenza activity is widespread across the UK and has continued to increase from week 50 to week 51/08. GP consultation rates have increased and are exceeding threshold levels in England and Scotland, they have also increased but remain within baseline in Wales. In Northern Ireland the consultation rate has greatly increased but thresholds have not yet been set. Proportions of calls to NHS Direct in England and Wales relating to colds/flu and fever have increased and remain above baseline levels. Calls to NHS 24 in Scotland are also increasing. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during week 51/08, 148 were positive for influenza A; three A (H1) and 145 A (H3), and eight for influenza B. Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 131 influenza A and two influenza B positive specimens in week 51/08. Thirty-one Scottish and 20 Northern Irish influenza positive specimens were reported in week 51. Eleven outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported recently from various areas of England in care homes, schools and a hospital. The proportion of people over 65 years who have received this season's influenza vaccine was 72% in week 50/08, and 44.2% in those aged under 65 in risk groups. Characterisation of 200 influenza viruses since week 40/08 by RVU have shown that the majority of circulating strains are well-matched by the current influenza vaccine. Influenza activity was increasing throughout the rest of Europe with four countries reporting 'medium' levels and 11 reporting increasing activity in week 50/08.
Anti-viral drug susceptibility testing; Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing on 73 A (H3) isolates since week 40/08 showed that all are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine. Both of the two influenza B isolates tested since week 40/08 are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. Twenty-nine of 30 A (H1) specimens tested in the same time frame are resistant to oseltamivir but sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. The majority of these oseltamivir-resistant viruses come from the south west of England. Two influenza A (H1) isolates have been found to be resistant to oseltamivir in Scotland this season, one of which has been confirmed by CfI.
Report 07: Reporting period: Week 51 (15/12/08 - 21/12/08) (PDF, 152 KB)
Report 6: Reporting period: Week 50 (08/12/08 - 14/12/08) - published week 51 (17/12/08)
Influenza activity is widespread across parts of the UK and has continued to increase from week 49 to week 50/08. GP consultation rates have increased and have exceeded threshold levels in England, they have also increased but remain within baseline in Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland the rate has greatly increased but thresholds have not yet been set. Thresholds for NHS Direct in England and Wales have been exceeded. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during week 50/08, 105 were positive for influenza A; four A (H1) and 97 A (H3), and four for influenza B. Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 109 influenza A and two influenza B positive specimens in week 50/08. Fifteen Scottish and 18 Northern Irish influenza positive specimens were reported in week 50. Seven outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported from various areas of England in an army barracks, care homes and schools in week 50/08. The weekly vaccine uptake rates for the over 65 years increased from 71.4% in week 49/08 to 72% in week 50/08 and in the under 65 years at risk group it increased from 43.4% to 44.2% in the same time period. Influenza activity was at low levels throughout the rest of Europe with 11 countries reporting increasing activity in week 49/08.
Clinical and virological indicators suggest that influenza viruses are now circulating within the community. The department of health now recommend the use of antivirals for treatment and prophylaxis of influenza according to NICE guidance. Further information can be found on the NICE website (http://www.nice.org.uk/Guidance/TA158 ).
Anti-viral susceptibility testing: Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing on 44A (H3) isolates since week 36/08 showed that all are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine. All of the four influenza B isolates tested since week 36/08 are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. Twenty-two of 23 A (H1) specimens tested in the same time frame are resistant to oseltamivir but sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. The majority of these resistant viruses come from the south west of England with the remaining from Wales and northern England. Two influenza A (H1) isolates have been found to be resistant to oseltamivir in Scotland this season.
Report 06: Reporting period: week 50 (08/12/08 - 14/12/08) (PDF, 153 KB)
Report 5: Reporting period: Weeks 48 & 49 (24/11/08 - 07/12/08) - published week 50 (10/12/08)
During weeks 48/08 and 49/08, influenza activity across the UK appeared to be increasing. GP consultation rates have increased sharply but remain within baseline levels in England, they have also increased slightly and remain within baseline in Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland the rate has greatly increased but thresholds have not yet been set. Thresholds for NHS Direct in England and Wales have been exceeded. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during weeks 48/08 and 49/08, 139 were positive for influenza A, eight A (H1) and 131 A (H3) and two for influenza B. Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 97 influenza A and one influenza B positive specimens during these two weeks. Four Scottish and eight Northern Irish influenza A positive specimens were reported in weeks 48 and 49/08. Nine outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported from England and Northern Ireland in week 49/08, several have been confirmed as influenza A and others are still under investigation. The weekly vaccine uptake rates for the over 65 years increased from 69.7% in week 48/08 to 71.4% in week 49/08 and in the under 65 years at risk group it increased from 42.2% to 43.4% in the same time period. Influenza activity was at low levels throughout the rest of Europe with 11 countries reporting increasing activity in week 48/08.
As influenza activity appears to be increasing, we will now be publishing full reports weekly
Antiviral Drug Susceptibility Testing: Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing on 30 A (H3) isolates since week 36/08 showed that all are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine. All of the four influenza B isolates received since week 36/08 are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. Twenty-three of 24 A (H1) specimens tested in the same time frame are resistant to oseltamivir but sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. The majority of these resistant viruses come from the south west of England with the remaining from Wales and northern England. Two influenza A (H1) isolates have been found to be resistant to oseltamivir in Scotland this season.
Report 05: Reporting period: Weeks 48 & 49 (24/11/08 - 07/12/08) (PDF, 150 KB)
Report 4: Reporting period: Weeks 46 & 47 (10/11/08 - 23/11/08) - published week 48 (26/11/08)
During weeks 46/08 and 47/08, influenza activity across the UK remained at low levels. Activity is still at baseline levels in England, Scotland and Wales; thresholds have not yet been set for Northern Ireland. Some clinical indicators of influenza have increased in England and Northern Ireland but have decreased slightly in Scotland and Wales. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during weeks 46/08 and 47/08, 45 were positive for influenza A, three A (H1) and 42 A (H3) and one for influenza B. Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 27 influenza A and three influenza B positive specimens during these two weeks. Three influenza A positive specimens were reported from Scotland in week 46/08 and three influenza A (H3) from Northern Ireland in week 47/08. One outbreak of respiratory illness was reported from a school in Wales in week 47/08; one sample tested positive for influenza A. The weekly vaccine uptake rates for the over 65 years increased from 62.5% in week 45/08 to 66% in week 46/08 and in the under 65 years at risk group it increased from 35% to 37.9% in the same time period. Vaccine uptake data is not currently available for week 47/08. Influenza activity was at low levels throughout the rest of Europe.
Antiviral Drug Susceptibility Testing: Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing on 30 A (H3) isolates since week 36/08 showed that all are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine. Fourteen of fifteen A (H1) specimens tested in the same time frame are resistant to oseltamivir but sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. The majority of these resistant viruses come from the south west of England with the remaining from Wales and northern England. All of the four influenza B isolates received since week 36/08 are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Report 04: Reporting period: weeks 46 & 47 (10/11/2008 - 23/11/2008) (PDF, 149 KB)
Report 03: Reporting period: Weeks 44 & 45 (27/10/08 - 09/11/08) - published week 46 (12/11/08)
During weeks 44/08 and 45/08, influenza activity across the UK remained at low levels. Activity is still at baseline levels in England, Scotland and Wales; thresholds have not yet been set for Northern Ireland. Some clinical indicators of influenza have increased in England, Wales and Northern Ireland but have decreased slightly in Scotland. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during weeks 44/08 and 45/08, 17 were positive for influenza A, three A (H1) and 14 A (H3). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 24 influenza A and one influenza B positive specimens during these two weeks. One influenza A was reported from Scotland in week 44/08 and one influenza B from Northern Ireland in week 45/08. One outbreak of respiratory illness was reported from a school in London; one of five samples was tested positive for influenza A (H3). This outbreak is still under investigation. The weekly vaccine uptake rates for the over 65 years increased from 56.1% in week 44/08 to 64.2% in week 45/08 and in the under 65 years at risk group increased from 30.4% to 31.5% in the same time period. Influenza activity was at low levels throughout the rest of Europe.
Antiviral drug susceptibility test: Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing on 10 out of 27 A (H3) isolates since week 36/08 showed that all of them are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine. Nine of ten A (H1) specimens tested in the same time frame are resistant to oseltamivir but sensitive to zanamivir. Eight of these nine resistant viruses have been tested for amantadine susceptibility and are all sensitive. All of the 3 influenza B isolates received are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir .
Report 03: Reporting period: Weeks 44 & 45 (27/10/08 - 09/11/08) (PDF, 148 KB)
Report 02: Reporting period: Weeks 42 & 43 (13/10/08 - 26/10/08) - published week 44 (29/10/08)
During weeks 42/08 and 43/08, influenza activity across the UK remained at low levels. Activity is still at baseline levels in England, Scotland and Wales; thresholds have not been set for Northern Ireland. However, RCGP has reported an increased rate of influenza-like illness in the under one year old age group of 21.5 per 100,000 in week 43/08 compared with nothing reported in the same age group in the previous three weeks. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections' Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during weeks 42/08 and 43/08, six were positive for influenza A, two A (H1) and two A (H3). Other NHS and HPA laboratories in England and Wales reported 15 influenza A and one influenza B during these two weeks. Two outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported, one from a care home in South East England and the other from a nursing home in East England. In the second outbreak 5 out 6 samples tested positive for influenza A. These outbreaks are still under investigation. The weekly vaccine uptake rates for the 65 years and over age group increased from 39.8% in week 42/08 to 50.5% in week 43/08. The uptake rates for the under 65 years at risk group increased from 20.1% in week 42/08 to26.5% in week 43/08. Influenza activity was at low levels throughout Europe.
Antiviral drug susceptibility test: Neuraminidase inhibitor susceptibility testing on 6 out of 8 A (H3) isolates since week 36/08 showed that all of them are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine. 3/3 A (H1) received and tested were resistant to oseltamivir but sensitive to zanamivir and amantadine. All of the 3 influenza B isolates received are sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir .
Report 02: Reporting period: Weeks 42 & 43 (13/10/08 - 26/10/08) (PDF, 138 KB)
Report 01: Reporting period: Weeks 40 & 41 (29/09/08 - 12/10/08) - published week 42 (15/10/08)
During weeks 40/08 and 41/08, influenza activity across the UK remained at low levels. Activity is still at baseline levels in England, Scotland and Wales; thresholds have not been set for Northern Ireland. Of the samples referred to the Centre for Infections’ Respiratory Virus Unit (RVU) during weeks 40/08 and 41/08, one was positive for influenza A/H1 and one influenza A/H3. During week 40, two outbreaks of respiratory illness were reported, one of which was laboratory confirmed RSV infection coupled with rhinovirus. Influenza activity was at low levels throughout Europe.
The 2007/08 UK annual influenza report was published in Health Protection Report on 10 October 2008 and is available at http://www.hpa.org.uk/hpr/archives/Infections/2008/respiratory.htm#ann0708.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has not confirmed any new cases of human infection with A(H5N1) avian influenza since 10 September 2008; the total number of confirmed human infections worldwide with H5N1, since December 2003, is 387 of which 245 (63%) have died.
Antiviral drug susceptibility test: Neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltaminir and zanamivir) susceptibility testing on 3 out of 4 A/H3 isolates since week 36/08 showed that all of them are sensitive.
Report 01: Reporting period: Weeks 40 & 41 (29/09/08 - 12/10/08) (PDF, 140 KB)
Last reviewed: 16 February 2010
