BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty opened Friday's programme with an urgent health warning, declaring the UK's flu situation 'really serious' as hospitals face record admissions for this time of year.
Record Numbers and NHS Strain
During the broadcast on December 5, Munchetty and co-host Charlie Stayt revealed alarming new data. They reported that an average of 1,717 flu patients were occupying hospital beds in England each day during the previous week, with 69 of those in critical care.
This figure, drawn from the first of this year's NHS situation reports, represents a staggering 56% increase compared to the same week in 2024. The crisis is UK-wide, with Scotland reporting an average of 724 flu patients in hospital last week—a 70% surge on the previous year.
"The number of people in hospital with flu is at a record level for this time of the year," Munchetty stated, adding that officials are warning the NHS is bracing for an unprecedented wave of infection.
Expert Insight and Urgent Public Plea
The programme interviewed GP Dr Mohit Mandiratta, who underscored the severity of the early peak. "The big concern is the peak we're getting with flu. We're not in the real peak of winter... and we're already seeing such high cases," he explained.
Dr Mandiratta cited expert discussions about current flu strains, noting that mutations may be making the virus spread more easily and cause more severe disease. He delivered a clear, urgent message on prevention:
- The flu jab is incredibly important: It's the best form of defence, especially for vulnerable individuals for whom flu can be "really serious."
- Reinforce pandemic hygiene habits: Hand washing, ventilating rooms, and keeping distance.
- Protect others during festivities: "If you're around vulnerable people and you're not well, stay at home."
Personal Experiences and Final Advice
Adding a personal perspective, Naga Munchetty described a previous bout of flu she had experienced as "horrific to have."
Dr Mandiratta concluded by advising listeners to trust their instincts regarding their health. "It's very person dependent, but if you do feel that unwell, that's when I'd say, make sure you seek advice," he said.
Further guidance on flu symptoms, prevention, and treatment is available on the official NHS website. BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am.
