A newly updated flu vaccine, adjusted to better protect against last year's fast-spreading 'Super-K' strain (subclade K), began rolling out to schoolchildren and pregnant women this week, as the NHS prepares for winter after what officials describe as its busiest summer on record. Last winter's flu season arrived unusually early and was worsened by the new variant, placing severe strain on emergency and urgent care services across the country. Dr Amanda Doyle of NHS England urged everyone eligible to come forward, saying staff have started preparing for winter earlier than ever given the ongoing pressure on services. Other eligible groups, including adults aged 65 and over, can receive a free NHS flu jab from October. Adults are also being offered wider access to the RSV vaccine this winter; those over 65 (previously over 75) with certain pre-existing conditions are now invited. Experts are watching flu trends in Australia and New Zealand, where results have been mixed, for early clues to how bad this winter might be.