Health leaders are warning of a potential 'double peak' in flu cases as the virus surges again following Christmas and New Year gatherings, putting fresh strain on the NHS.
Post-Festive Surge in Cases
Data shows that after a brief dip over the Christmas week, flu hospitalisations in England have bounced back, rising by 9% last week. An average of 2,924 patients were in hospital with flu daily, up from 2,676 the previous week. This follows a peak in mid-December when daily admissions hit 3,140.
NHS national medical director, Professor Meghana Pandit, stated that the rise in flu and other respiratory viruses, combined with cold-weather injuries, means the worst is far from over for the health service this winter. The return of children to school after the festive break is also feared to be a driver for further infections.
The 'Super Flu' Strain and Ongoing Pressure
The current wave is being driven by the H3N2 strain, often referred to as 'super flu'. Experts had been uncertain whether this would lead to an early, sharp peak or a prolonged season of high infection rates. The recent data suggests mixing over the holidays has caused a significant resurgence.
Despite the NHS being better prepared than last year, Health Secretary Wes Streeting cautioned that the service is "not out of the woods yet." He emphasised that vaccination remains the best protection and urged all eligible individuals to get their flu jab promptly to help reduce hospital admissions.
The number of flu patients in hospital remains at the highest level for this time of year since records began in 2021. Some hospitals have reinstated mask-wearing policies for staff, patients, and visitors to curb the spread.
Looking Ahead: A Prolonged Season
The severity of the UK's flu season is often foreshadowed by trends in Australia, which experienced its highest infection rates in over a decade last winter. This has raised concerns that the UK could face a drawn-out flu season with a potential second peak.
Professor Pandit praised NHS staff for their hard work and reiterated the importance of the public seeking care when needed and taking up the offer of vaccination. The coming weeks are expected to be among the toughest of the winter for frontline services.
