"This flu outbreak is the worst I've seen," says pediatrician

A consultant in pediatric emergency medicine has reported encountering the "most intense influenza outbreak" of her career. Recent data indicates a 77% jump in confirmed flu cases among adults and children across Northern Ireland in just one week, rising from 273 to 484 cases.

The illness has disproportionately affected children, especially those under five, who are being admitted to hospitals at higher rates than any other age group. In the week ending 23 November, the influenza positivity rate peaked at 52.3% among children aged five to 14.

Dr. Julie-Ann Maney of the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children described her department as "extremely busy" due to the surge. She stated, "Since becoming a consultant in 2010, I have never seen flu this severe. This strain is particularly aggressive, with children experiencing prolonged high fevers and extended illness duration."

While flu outbreaks occur annually, health experts warn this season could be the worst in a decade due to a newly mutated virus. For the week ending 23 November, the infection rate reached 25.4 cases per 100,000 people, up from 14.3 per 100,000 the previous week, according to the Public Health Agency (PHA).

Dr. Peter Naughton, a health protection consultant at the PHA, noted that the season began earlier this year with unusually high rates of positive tests among children. Hospitals are reporting increased admissions of young patients with influenza symptoms.

Dr. Thomas Bourke, also a pediatric consultant at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, confirmed that cases have doubled. He urged parents to reserve emergency department visits for seriously ill children. "It can be stressful for parents caring for a sick child at home, but reliable guidance and support are available," he said.

The Belfast Trust offers a symptom checker online to help parents assess the severity of their childs condition. Most children recover within a week without medical intervention. Preventive measures, such as frequent hand washing, not sharing utensils, and covering sneezes, are recommended to reduce the spread of the virus.

Annual flu vaccinations remain the primary defense, Dr. Bourke emphasized, noting that last year 862 children in Northern Ireland were hospitalized with influenza. Evidence from southern hemisphere countries suggests this year may see even higher admission numbers.

The ongoing rise in flu cases is adding to winter pressures and contributing to longer emergency department wait times across Northern Ireland.

Author: Maya Henderson