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 on the same period last year. The figure includes 69 patients in critical condition, according to NHS England data.
Professor Julian Redhead, national director for urgent and emergency care, said the numbers confirmed the NHS's 'deepest concerns' about an early and severe flu season. 'Cases are incredibly high for this time of year and there is no peak in sight yet,' he warned.
The surge comes as resident doctors in England prepare for a five-day strike from 17 to 22 December. Sir Jim Mackey, chief executive of NHS England, described the timing as 'cruel' and 'calculated to cause mayhem' during a period of high demand. He warned that flu patient numbers could rise to 8,000 by next week.
Sarah Woolnough of the King's Fund said the NHS was 'entering the most challenging period of the year', with rising flu cases and industrial action adding strain to an already struggling system. Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged 'record investment and modernisation' to build a more resilient NHS.
