How We at That's Christmas 365 Are Fighting Off the “Australian Superflu” (and How You Can Too)

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The couple behind That’s Christmas 365 (and our related blogs) have been properly knocked sideways by what the headlines have been calling the “Australian superflu”. 

We both had our flu jabs… and yet here we are: wiped out, sore, shivery, coughing, and wondering how something that feels so ordinary can also feel so utterly brutal.

If you’re in the same boat, this post is for you: a practical, UK-friendly guide to getting through flu sensibly, safely, and with the least misery possible.

First: what is this “Australian superflu”, really?

“Superflu” isn’t a medical term — it’s a media nickname for a fast-spreading variant of influenza A (H3N2) that’s been getting attention internationally, including strains described as emerging strongly in Australia and then showing up widely elsewhere. The World Health Organization has noted increased detections of H3N2 “subclade K” viruses in multiple countries. 

In the UK, UKHSA has been publishing seasonal surveillance updates through the 2025–26 season, and they’ve also explained something important: flu vaccines are mainly about reducing severe illness (like hospitalisation), not guaranteeing you won’t catch flu at all.

So yes — you can be vaccinated and still get flu. It’s miserable, but it isn’t a sign you “did it wrong”.

The goal: recover well, reduce risk, and avoid complications

Think of flu recovery as three priorities:

Support your body while it clears the virus

Watch for warning signs that mean you need medical advice

Reduce spread (especially to vulnerable people)

Let’s do those properly.

1) Home care that actually helps

Rest like it’s your job

Flu is not a “push through it” illness. If you try to power on, it often drags on and bites back. Proper rest isn’t laziness — it’s treatment.

Try:

Sleep whenever you can

Keep activity gentle (even showering can feel like a marathon)

Don’t rush back to normal just because you feel 20% better

Hydration: small and often

Flu dehydrates you through fever, sweating, faster breathing, and “can’t be bothered to drink”.

Easy wins:

Water, squash, warm tea, broth

Ice lollies if you can’t face drinks

Little sips frequently if you feel nauseous

Fever, aches, and that “hit by a bus” feeling

For most adults, typical over-the-counter options can help with comfort:

Paracetamol for fever/aches

Ibuprofen can also help some people (if you can take it)

Use medicines exactly as labelled, and avoid doubling up products that contain the same ingredients.

Sore throat and cough comfort

Flu coughs can be rough and relentless.

Comfort measures:

Warm drinks (tea, lemon, warm water)

Lozenges

Saline nasal spray (especially if post-nasal drip is driving cough)

Honey-based drinks can soothe throats (not suitable for babies under 1 year)

If your cough is keeping you from sleeping, a pharmacist can advise on symptom relief options that are appropriate for you.

Steam and air: don’t overcomplicate it

Dry air can make everything feel worse.

Try:

A bowl of hot water in the room (kept safely out of reach)

A humidifier if you already have one. Or check out Amazon https://amzn.to/4jt6C7s.

Ventilation (brief fresh air changes can help your comfort and reduce spread)

Eat what you can manage

You don’t need “superfoods”. You need calories and fluids.

Gentle options:

Soup, toast, bananas, yoghurt, rice, porridge

Little portions more often

2) When to seek help (this bit matters)

Flu can turn into something more serious, especially for older adults, pregnant people, people with chronic conditions, or anyone immunocompromised.

Get urgent medical advice (NHS 111 / urgent care) if you notice:

Breathing is difficult, very fast, or painful

Chest pain or pressure

You can’t keep fluids down, or you’re barely passing urine

Confusion, extreme drowsiness, or you’re getting worse after seeming to improve

High fever that isn’t settling, or symptoms are rapidly worsening

If it feels “not right”, trust that instinct.

3) Antivirals: worth knowing about (especially if you’re at higher risk)

There are prescription antivirals that can reduce the risk of complications for eligible people — but timing matters. In general, they’re most useful when started early.

In the UK, oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir are recognised options for treatment and prophylaxis in certain circumstances. Guidance and prescribing rules have been updated and discussed in NHS/UKHSA-linked resources. 

If you (or someone in your household) is in a higher-risk group and you suspect flu, it’s worth contacting NHS 111 or your GP promptly to ask what’s appropriate.

4) “But we had the flu jab…” — why it can still happen

This is the part we really want to emphasise, because it’s easy to feel disheartened.

UKHSA’s messaging is clear: the flu vaccine typically reduces the risk of severe outcomes, even when it doesn’t fully prevent infection — and effectiveness can vary by strain and by season. 

So even if you’re ill (like we are), the jab may still be doing important behind-the-scenes work: lowering the chance of complications, hospital admission, or a longer recovery.

5) Reduce spread without turning your house into a hazmat zone

If one of you is ill and the other is trying desperately not to join them:

Handwashing (properly, with soap)

Don’t share towels, mugs, or cutlery

Wipe high-touch surfaces (door handles, remotes, phones)

Ventilate rooms (short, regular fresh-air changes)

Consider a mask if you’re caring for someone vulnerable or you have to be close-up

Our very unglamorous recovery plan

Right now, our approach is:

Rest, even when we’re bored of resting

Fluids, little and often

Simple food

Symptom relief for aches/fever

No heroics (the blogs will still be here when we’re better)

And if anything shifts into “this is worsening, not improving”, we won’t hesitate to get medical advice.

A gentle reminder from us at That’s Christmas 365

If you’re reading this while ill: you’re not failing. Flu can flatten the best of us — and this season’s strains have been widely discussed for their ability to spread quickly. 

Take it seriously, take care of yourself, and let recovery be the plan.

Even If You’ve Had the Flu Jab: A Winter Warning About This Year’s Severe Flu

For many of us, having the flu vaccination feels like ticking an important winter health box. 

You do the sensible thing, protect yourself and others, and expect that if flu does strike, it will at least be mild.

This winter, that expectation has not always been met.

Despite vaccination, a significant number of people across the UK are still contracting an unusually aggressive strain of influenza, often referred to in everyday language as “super flu”. My wife and I both caught it while attending a funeral shortly before Christmas. 

I have been unwell, but my wife has been particularly badly affected, with symptoms that have lingered and hit far harder than a typical seasonal illness.

This experience has prompted us to share a warning, not to discourage vaccination, but to encourage realistic expectations, vigilance, and early self-care.

Are This Year’s Flu Vaccines “Not Working”?

It’s important to be clear and factual.

Flu vaccines are not failing outright, but this season they appear to be less effective at preventing infection for some people. This can happen when:

Circulating flu strains mutate after vaccines are produced

Multiple influenza strains circulate at once

Individual immune responses vary

Protection reduces over time, particularly in winter peaks

Vaccination still reduces the risk of hospitalisation, pneumonia, and death, which is why the NHS continues to recommend it, especially for older adults, carers, and those with underlying conditions.

However, this year has shown clearly that being vaccinated does not guarantee you won’t get flu — or that it will be mild.

How This “Super Flu” Is Presenting

Many people report symptoms that are stronger, longer-lasting, and more debilitating than a standard cold or flu, including:

Severe exhaustion that doesn’t lift with rest

Persistent chesty or dry cough

High fever and chills lasting several days

Headaches and muscle pain

Loss of appetite and nausea

Chest tightness or breathlessness

Lingering weakness well into recovery

For some, symptoms are lasting two to three weeks, even in otherwise healthy adults.

What You Can Do at Home If You Catch It

If symptoms are manageable and you’re not in a high-risk group, home care is often appropriate — but it needs to be taken seriously.

1. Rest Properly (Not “Pushing Through”)

This is not a flu to power through. Rest is not optional.

Stay in bed or on the sofa

Avoid physical exertion

Reduce screen time if headaches worsen

Returning to normal activity too soon can prolong recovery.

2. Hydration Is Critical

Flu dehydrates you quickly.

Sip water regularly

Warm drinks can ease coughing

Oral rehydration drinks can help if appetite is low

Dark urine or dizziness are signs you’re not drinking enough.

3. Fever and Pain Relief

Paracetamol can help reduce fever and aches

Ibuprofen may help with inflammation if suitable for you

Avoid combining medicines unnecessarily

Always follow UK dosage guidance.

4. Ease Chest and Breathing Symptoms

Steam inhalation or warm showers may ease congestion

Keep rooms well-ventilated but warm

Sleep slightly propped up if coughing worsens at night

If breathing becomes laboured or painful, seek medical advice immediately.

5. Support the Immune System

While not cures, the following may help recovery:

Light, nourishing foods (soups, broths)

Honey and lemon or orange for sore throats (not for children under one)

Adequate vitamin intake through diet

Avoid alcohol — it can worsen dehydration and fatigue.

When to Seek Medical Help

Do not rely solely on home care if any of the following occur:

Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Fever lasting more than 5 days

Blue lips or extreme drowsiness

Confusion or collapse

Symptoms worsening after initial improvement

Contact NHS 111, your GP, or emergency services as appropriate.

A Final Word of Caution

This winter’s flu is not something to dismiss as “just a bad cold” — even if you’ve done everything right and had your jab.

Vaccination still matters. Hygiene still matters. But listening to your body, resting properly, and acting early matter just as much.

If you’re attending gatherings, funerals, or crowded indoor events, be aware that flu is circulating widely — and hitting harder than many expect.

Please take care of yourselves — and each other.

Why Every Family Should Get Their Flu Jab Before Christmas

As we slip into the sparkle and bustle of December, most of us are busy planning festive menus, booking travel, wrapping presents, and checking whether we’ve remembered everyone’s stocking fillers. 

But there’s another Christmas essential that often gets overlooked, and it may be the most important gift you can give your family this season: making sure everyone has had their flu jab.

Why it matters now more than ever

Winter is peak flu season in the UK, and with families gathering indoors,  often with relatives of all ages, from excitable toddlers to older grandparents, the chances of catching and spreading flu increase dramatically. 

While flu is sometimes dismissed as “just a heavy cold,” the NHS reminds us that it can cause severe illness, hospitalisation, and in vulnerable groups, it can even be life-threatening.

Some hospitals are already closed to new admissions due to an unexpected and early surge in flu cases and some virologists are recommending that people start wearing face masks, especially whilst on public transport.

A flu-free Christmas is a happier Christmas.

Who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab?

Each year, the NHS offers free flu vaccinations to groups most at risk. This typically includes:

Adults aged 65 and over

Pregnant women

People with certain long-term health conditions

Children aged 2–3 (nasal spray)

School-age children up to Year 11

Carers and frontline health or social care workers

If you’re not eligible, you can still get vaccinated privately at pharmacies such as Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds, and many independent chemists. Private jabs are reasonably priced and widely available.

Why the whole family should get protected

Even if you’re healthy, flu can knock you off your feet for days, sometimes weeks, and nobody wants to miss out on Christmas dinner, carol services or Boxing Day walks because they’re tucked up in bed with tissues and paracetamol.

But there’s another crucial reason: protection for others. Children and working adults often spread flu without realising they’re infectious. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping shield vulnerable relatives who might be more severely affected.

Think of it as a family act of kindness, and one that keeps the celebrations moving smoothly.

How to get your flu jab sorted quickly

Booking your flu vaccination is simple and can usually be done online:

NHS GP surgeries often invite eligible patients directly or allow online booking.

Pharmacies provide quick walk-in or pre-booked appointments.

Schools handle vaccinations for most children automatically.

If you’re planning Christmas travel, book your jab sooner rather than later. It takes around two weeks for immunity to develop.

Make it part of your Christmas preparations

Treat flu jabs like you would ordering the turkey or checking the fairy lights: a practical step that ensures your festive season runs smoothly.

Why not turn it into a family health check-in? Tick off flu jabs, review repeat prescriptions, and make sure everyone’s well stocked with any medications they’ll need over the Christmas and New Year period. It’s amazing how much stress this removes from the holidays.

A healthier, happier Christmas for all

Flu jabs aren’t the most glamorous part of Christmas planning, but they might just be the most meaningful. By protecting yourself and encouraging your family to do the same, you’re giving the gift of good health,  and creating the best possible chance for a relaxed, joyful, sniffle-free Christmas.

Later on we'll carry a feature on simple steps you can take to help your body ward off the flu.

Make Yourself 'Flu Proof' This Christmas

There's nothing worse than a bout of flu, especially over the Christmas period. 

Flu season comes around every year, and for sufferers, it always feels worse than the last, but what if this year that is actually the case? 

A recent study by the BBC labelled 2025 as the 'worst flu season in decades' due to the NHS issuing a "flu jab SOS" urging people to get their flu jab, especially if they are high-risk patients. 

While some may think getting the flu is an inevitable fate we all try and avoid during colder months, there are actually steps we can take to ensure the flu stays firmly at bay. 

Longevity experts, Charava, have compiled a list of ways to not only avoid flu but maintain a healthy immune system in general during winter. 

Why flu in 2025 is hitting the UK hard 

Influenza viruses are constantly maturing, meaning different strains develop each year and vaccinations have to be tweaked to ensure the new strain is eliminated effectively. As temperatures started to drop earlier in September in the UK, this has meant that more people are spending time indoors with the heating on and windows shut, creating a perfect breeding ground for the flu virus. With the spread of flu starting earlier this year, people haven't built up immunity, meaning we are being infected at a much faster rate. 

Why do we need extra support in winter

Shorter days mean your skin makes less vitamin D from the sunlight, which can lead to us becoming vitamin D deficient. Certain vitamins to take during winter help support your immune function, keeping you from catching the flu or feeling run-down. Nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 help your body make healthy blood cells, which carry oxygen and energy around your body, which can support immunity levels and make a big difference to how you feel during winter months. 

6 ways to avoid the flu this winter 

1. Get your flu jab now

The flu jab is readily available in the UK, especially to those over 65 or those with existing health conditions. For others, there are options to book at local pharmacies, which may charge for the vaccine but are often inexpensive and worth it for extra protection. 

The vaccination essentially exposes you to a small dose of the flu to give your white blood cells a chance to build a defence after understanding what they are fighting against. Once they have been exposed, it means if they come up against this particular strain of virus again, they'll be ready. 

This is why it's so important to get the flu jab every year. As influenza strains change and mature, even the flu you have been exposed to in the past will be something different that your white blood cells are not used to. The flu jab gives you a certain level of immunity, but should not be mistaken for a pass on flu during cold months. Other essential steps need to be practised alongside.

2. Ensure you're getting enough sleep

Sleep is and always will be one of the most important things you can do to keep your body healthy, whether you're fighting the flu or any other illness. Often overlooked as a chance to rest, sleep is actually your body's chance to recharge, regenerate and renew. 

As nights draw in, people often feel tired and lethargic. This is because our bodies use more energy throughout the day to stay warm and fight off more viruses, but also because during darker nights our brains are ready to switch off earlier. Some people fight this and get tired from lack of sleep, and others give in, going to bed much earlier and perhaps getting up later, again making themselves tired from a lack of sleep routine. It may sound like a lose-lose; however, when it comes to sleep, consistency is key. As well as making sure you listen to your body, if you're tired, let it rest.

Our cells renew as we sleep, and our bodies recharge. This is often why vitamin D is taken during darker days to help our bodies with the immune support, mood and energy we usually get from the sun.

3. Hydrate yourself 

Just like sleep; hydration is paramount to ensuring your body is prepared to fight off infection. White blood cells need water to function; if they become dehydrated, they can often shrink, impairing their ability to fight off foreign bodies such as the flu. 

Staying hydrated also helps maintain your body temperature. If your temperature drops, it can be harder to fight off illness because your energy is being used to regulate it, which can weaken your immune system and, therefore, increase your susceptibility to viruses. 

4. Don't skimp on your vitamins 

When the colder months arrive, your body may need extra help to stay strong and active. The best supplements for winter health can support your immune system, boost energy levels, and help your body recover more quickly from tiredness or low mood.

Eating a balanced diet with nutrients and lean protein is important, but it may not always give you everything your body needs. Taking the right winter supplements can help strengthen your immune system, maintain steady energy levels, and support your overall health through the season. One of the best vitamins for this time of year is vitamin D3 paired with K2.  

Vitamin D3 helps your body absorb calcium, and Vitamin K2 makes sure that calcium goes to your bones rather than your arteries. This supports immunity, helping you fight off flu, but also stabilises mood to maintain balanced energy levels. 

5. Practice good hygiene 

While this may sound like an obvious point, you'd be amazed at how much more we need to maintain hygiene levels proactively during the winter. Washing hands, bodies, clothes and surfaces is important to remove living bacteria and viruses as quickly as they spread. 

Frequency of washing is more crucial than the length of time you spend washing your hands. For example, it is recommended that you wash your hands for 30 seconds. However, during winter, the most important thing is to clean them regularly to avoid coming into contact with anything that carries the flu virus. On that note, it is also advised to avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes in case germs still linger after washing. 

6. Take steps for clean air 

While we all would like to stay warm during colder months (which is also important for avoiding illness), ventilation is essential in winter to prevent viruses from being trapped in confined spaces, where they can mutate and spread. Opening a window for just 5-10 minutes per day can help with this, as can using a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air. 

Dust allergens and other particles can also carry bacteria, so maintaining a regular cleaning routine is vital. 

Nutritional Therapist, Rachel Evans, told That's Christmas 365: "Vitamin D can help support the barriers of our respiratory tract and our gut lining. As we cant make enough vitamin D here in the UK during the winter months then we can become deficient so supplementing with this vitamin is really important.  It is always good to get your levels tested so that you know your baseline and can supplement accordingly with the right dosage.

"Alongside our gut barrier we have around 70/80% of our immune cells and we also have trillions of microbes living within our gut (I like to think of them like little Tamagotchi’s). When we eat, we aren’t just eating for ourselves, we are also feeding these microbes.  

"They thrive on a diet full of variety which helps them to produce various chemicals that do all sorts of useful jobs in our body liking helping to regulate immune cells and keep inflammation in check. When you are putting your meals together think of adding in lots of colourful fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, mushrooms, and fermented foods like kefir and kimchi.

"Polyphenols (plants chemicals found in berries, cocoa, green tea and spices like turmeric) and nutrients like vitamin C (oranges, kiwis, peppers), zinc (pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, oysters), selenium (brazil nuts, eggs, mushrooms) and omega-3 fats (salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, walnuts) all help to manage inflammation and support the immune system in staying strong and resilient.  

"On top of this, consistent and restful sleep, spending time outdoors, exercise, managing stress and keeping hydrated all play a really important part of keeping your immune system strong and healthy during the flu season."

You can learn more here https://www.charava.co.uk

How to Avoid Catching the Mutated Flu Virus Sweeping Britain

A practical, reassuring guide for a safer, more healthy Christmas.

As Britain gears up for the festive season, many of us are juggling gift lists, food prep, travel plans and party invitations. 

Unfortunately, this year we’re also contending with a mutated strain of flu that’s making its way rapidly through workplaces, schools and social events, having cunningly side-stepped the vaccination programme. 

Nobody wants to spend Christmas Day under a duvet with a thermometer and a box of tissues. So here’s a clear, sensible guide to help you reduce your risk, stay well, and enjoy the season’s celebrations.

Keep Your Hands Clean (It Still Works Wonders)

Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to stop flu viruses spreading.

Wash with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

Keep a small bottle of hand sanitiser in your coat pocket or bag when out Christmas shopping.

After using public transport, handling coins, or touching door handles in busy shops, sanitise or wash your hands as soon as you can.

It’s simple, quick and reduces your chances of picking up unwanted germs.

Give Your Immune System a Helping Hand

A strong immune system isn’t a guarantee, but it makes a real difference.

Eat well: Include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and lean proteins in your meals.

Stay hydrated: Cold weather often makes us forget to drink enough.

Get enough rest: Late-night wrapping sessions are fun, but sleep is essential for immune function.

Consider a flu jab: If you’re eligible or simply want extra protection, check with your GP or pharmacy. You can have NHS or private vaccinations. 

Ventilate Your Home and Party Spaces

Christmas often involves cosy, closed rooms packed with people — ideal conditions for viruses.

Open windows for short bursts throughout the day.

If you’re hosting, let in a little fresh air between guests arriving and food being served.

In pubs, cafés or parties, pick spots with some airflow where possible.

Good ventilation reduces the concentration of airborne viruses without making the room chilly.

Be Sensible About Crowds

This isn’t about avoiding fun — simply being aware.

Choose quieter times to shop if you can.

If attending a very crowded indoor event, consider wearing a mask (especially if you’re vulnerable or visiting elderly relatives soon).

Keep a respectful distance if someone nearby is coughing or sneezing.

Don’t Share Drinks, Snacks or Utensils

It sounds obvious, but Christmas buffets often lead to accidental cross-over.

Avoid double-dipping.

Don’t hand round drinks for taste tests.

Use serving spoons rather than fingers when nibbling from platters.

It’s not killjoy advice — it’s about keeping festivities flu-free.

Wrap Up Warm (It Makes a Difference)

Cold air itself doesn’t cause flu, but sudden temperature drops can make your body more vulnerable.

Wear layers when out carolling or attending Christmas markets.

Keep scarves and gloves handy.

Dry off and warm up after being caught in winter rain.

Comfort helps your body stay resilient.

Stay Home If You’re Unwell

If you wake up with flu symptoms — high temperature, aches, exhaustion, a heavy cough — give yourself permission to rest and recover.

Cancel events if you need to.

Let friends and family know you’re keeping your germs to yourself.

It’s far better to miss one outing than risk ruining Christmas for someone else.

Most people appreciate the honesty.

Christmas is meant to be joyful, social and uplifting — and with a few simple precautions, we can all enjoy it while staying as healthy as possible. The mutated flu virus may be circulating, but good hygiene, sensible planning and a little consideration for others go a long way.

Stay warm, stay well, and have a wonderfully festive season.