Health blogs from the UK Health Security Agency
Do I have flu, COVID-19 or a cold? Know the signs and symptoms
We see cases of flu, RSV and COVID-19 throughout the year, but in winter they circulate at the same time and can reach high levels. We also track other respiratory...
Should we be worried about the current COVID-19 variants?
As we enter autumn, rates of respiratory illnesses start to rise and people ask how the most common current lineages - or groups of genetically similar viruses - compare to previous...
Your guide to who’s eligible for the autumn 2025 flu vaccine
As we approach autumn, it's nearly time for people with certain long-term health conditions to be booked in for their free flu jab. Individuals with these conditions are at risk of more...
What are the symptoms of Oropouche virus disease and how can you avoid it?
Oropouche virus disease is a lesser-known tropical infection that’s been spreading across Central and South America in recent years. If you're planning to travel to the region, or are just...
What are the symptoms of the chikungunya virus and is there a vaccine?
Chikungunya may not be a household name, but this mosquito-borne viral infection has become a significant concern for travellers to some destinations. The disease, whose name derives from...
Why some people suffer more than others during heatwaves
While many of us revel in the hot summer sunshine, others are at risk of developing heat-related complications such as sunstroke and heatstroke. In this blog post we will outline how...
The essential travel checklist to keep you and your family healthy on holiday
Planning a holiday abroad? This guide provides essential information to help you travel safely and minimise health risks. Whether you're planning a beach break, visiting family overseas,...
What you need to know about UV (ultraviolet) radiation
Ultraviolet, or UV, radiation, comes to earth from the sun. The ozone layer protects those of us on the ground from most of it, but some does reach the surface. Here’s a quick...
Who’s eligible for the 2025 COVID-19 vaccine, or ‘Autumn Booster’?
When autumn comes, protection from any earlier COVID-19 vaccination you may have had will be starting to wane. For those who are more likely to become seriously ill from COVID-19, the NHS...
What the evidence says about interventions to reduce pollution and improve lives
Breathing in polluted air affects our health, reduces our life expectancy, and costs our society billions of pounds each year. It is estimated that 2 million healthy life years are lost in...
How to avoid rabies and what to do if you’re exposed while travelling
Rabies is a rare but deadly viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK but the infection poses a risk to travellers...
A parent’s guide to summer infections and health hazards
As summer arrives, you’re likely to spend more time outdoors with your children. Lots of us love this time of year and it’s great to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather. It’s worth...