The NHS is facing an 'unprecedented flu wave', with an average of 1,717 flu patients in hospital beds each day last week in England, a 56% increase compared to the same period last year. The figures, released by NHS England, include 69 patients in critical condition, marking the highest level of flu hospitalisations recorded for this time of year.
Professor Julian Redhead, national director for urgent and emergency care, said the data confirmed the NHS's 'deepest concerns' about the winter ahead. 'Flu cases are incredibly high for this time of year and there is no peak in sight yet,' he warned. He added that the combination of rising flu cases and planned strikes by resident doctors could stretch staff 'close to breaking point'.
The strike, set to run from 7am on 17 December to 7am on 22 December, has drawn sharp criticism from NHS leaders. Sir Jim Mackey, chief executive of NHS England, described the action as 'cruel' and 'calculated to cause mayhem' at a time when the service is under severe pressure. He warned that flu patient numbers could rise to 8,000 by next week.
Sarah Woolnough, chief executive of the King's Fund, noted that the flu season started 'unusually early' and has yet to peak, adding strain to an already struggling system. Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged to 'weather this storm' through planning, record investment, and modernisation to build a more resilient NHS.
