Every winter brings viral rumours — and not just the medical kind. This year’s big headline is the claim that a dangerous “superflu outbreak” is shutting down schools across the UK. Videos and screenshots are spreading fast, often stripped of context, fuelling anxiety at a time when families are already under strain.
So what’s real, what’s exaggerated, and what do disabled people and SEND families actually need to know?
Let’s break it down clearly.
Is There Really a ‘Superflu Outbreak’?
Yes and no.
There is a particularly strong flu wave this winter, driven mainly by Influenza A. Hospital admissions for flu have risen more sharply than in recent years. Several NHS trusts have declared critical incidents, which means they are under extreme pressure and need to reorganise services to cope.
But the term “superflu” is a media label, not a medical diagnosis. Public health authorities have not declared a new virus, a new pandemic, or a national emergency. What we’re experiencing is a severe flu season — not an unknown threat.
Are Schools Closing Across the Country?
The viral rumours suggest widespread school shutdowns, but that isn’t what’s happening.
A small number of schools have temporarily closed or reduced attendance due to exceptionally high staff sickness or student absences. These are local decisions, made on a case-by-case basis.
There is no national instruction to close schools, and the majority remain open as usual.
Online clips often show dramatic headlines without dates, context or location, leading people to believe something much larger is happening than reality.
Why Do These Rumours Spread So Easily?
Because they hit three pressure points:
- Post-COVID anxiety
People are hyper-aware of any talk of outbreaks, closures, or NHS pressure. - Lack of context
A screenshot of “critical incident declared” looks like a crisis, but these declarations are not unusual during tough winter periods. - Social media incentives
Viral content rewards fear, urgency, and drama — not calm explanation.
That’s why the Rumours series exists: to strip away the panic and focus on verified information.
What Disabled People and SEND Families Need to Know
Winter flu surges are especially worrying for households with medically vulnerable children or those who struggle with sudden changes in routine. Here’s what matters most:
1. Schools must still support your child during closures
If a school partially closes or moves classes online, they must continue providing work, communication, and reasonable adjustments.
SEND pupils should not be left without education.
2. Sudden routine changes can cause distress
Children with autism, PDA profiles or anxiety can struggle when school plans change abruptly.
Parents can request:
- advanced notice wherever possible
- a clear transition plan
- predictable communication
- alternatives if the child cannot cope
3. Medically vulnerable children may need extra precautions
This includes staying up to date with flu vaccinations, monitoring symptoms, and limiting exposure when unwell.
This is standard winter health guidance, not specific to any new virus.
4. Local authorities must consider transportation and absence
If your child cannot safely attend school due to a health concern backed by medical advice, the school and local authority must treat this as a legitimate absence and work with you, not penalise you.
5. Always check reliable sources
The NHS, UKHSA, and your local authority are the places to look for accurate updates.
Viral videos rarely tell the full story.
So What’s the Bottom Line?
A severe flu season is putting real pressure on hospitals.
A few schools have temporarily closed.
But claims of a new “superflu” shutting down the UK are exaggerated.
Families deserve calm, clear information — not panic and speculation.
And disabled people and SEND households deserve guidance tailored to their needs, not fear-driven headlines.
This winter is challenging, but it is manageable with accurate information and practical support.
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