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This year's flu strain has mutated in a way that makes it both more severe and more contagious, experts warn, kick-starting what health officials have described as an 'unusually early' start to flu season.

The early wave of the virus has sparked concerns the UK could be heading for one of its toughest flu seasons in years.

It follows the worst flu season in Australia's history, which the NHS warns is often an accurate predictor of what is around the corner for England.

Last week, the NHS issued an urgent 'flu jab SOS' urging those who are eligible to get vaccinated against the virus. It said cases are already triple what was recorded at the same time last year, with weeks to go before the worst of the flu season typically bites.

A virus expert has warned that the

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