In a concerning development, the number of patients hospitalized with flu in England has surged dramatically, quadrupling in the last month, according to the latest data from NHS England. On December 29, 2024, the number of patients receiving treatment for the flu reached a staggering 5,074, a significant increase from 1,190 reported at the end of November.
The figures reveal that the flu cases in hospitals spiked sharply during the holiday season, with 4,102 patients hospitalized on Christmas Day alone. This marks an alarming rise of nearly 25% in just a few days.
The NHS has issued warnings regarding the impact of the recent drop in temperatures across the UK. This cold snap has prompted rare health alerts from UK health security agencies, raising concerns that the ongoing flu outbreak may continue to put additional pressure on an already strained healthcare system.
As hospitals brace for further challenges, public health officials urge citizens to take preventive measures, including vaccinations and practicing good hygiene, to help mitigate the spread of flu during this critical period.
Professor Julian Redhead, the NHS national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, commented, “These recent statistics indicate that the flu’s impact was not diminishing as we approached the new year. Alongside flu, we are also facing persistent pressures from COVID-19, with increases in hospitalization due to RSV and norovirus compared to last year. Hospitals have added an additional 1,300 beds this past week in anticipation of continued demand from various viruses and other healthcare needs.”
He further advised, “With the forecast predicting a severe cold wave across England this weekend, we recognize that low temperatures can pose risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals and those with respiratory issues. If you are at risk, please take steps to stay warm and ensure you have sufficient supplies of your regular medications.
