A significant surge in flu infections has resulted in a 70% rise in hospital admissions across England within a mere week, as reported by the NHS.
An average of 1,861 individuals hospitalized with flu was recorded daily last week, an increase from 1,099 the previous week and 402 at the same period last year.
Current flu cases are predominantly found among 5 to 14-year-olds, per the UK Health Security Agency, although a rise in adult cases is anticipated as schools and child care centers close for the season.
Additionally, norovirus (commonly known as the winter vomiting bug) and RSV (a frequent cause of coughs and colds, as well as chest infections in infants) are also on the upswing.
The NHS indicated norovirus cases have increased by 10% from the prior week and 64% from last year, while there are 152 children hospitalized each day due to RSV—up from 107 at the same time in 2023.
Concerns are mounting regarding a so-called “quad-demic” this winter.
This term pertains to the “four very prevalent viral illnesses that circulate every winter during different peaks,” explained Dr. David Lloyd, a general practitioner, during an interview with Sky News Breakfast.
The likelihood and risk of individuals contracting all four viruses simultaneously increases at this time of the year as people tend to gather indoors with family and friends.
Individuals who are eligible are strongly encouraged to receive their vaccinations promptly to avoid falling ill with festive flu.
The NHS offers vaccinations for flu, COVID, and RSV.
Certain demographics can avail of a complimentary vaccination. Pic: iStock
Individuals over 65, expectant mothers, and those with specific health conditions qualify for a free flu vaccination at pharmacies.
Read more:
What is the ‘quad-demic’ – and how can you protect yourself?
Vaccinations are also being provided at venues such as Christmas markets, football clubs, and grocery stores.
RSV vaccines are advised for pregnant women to safeguard their newborns and for adults aged 75 to 79.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, head of NHS England, remarked: “The substantial increase in flu cases and other seasonal viruses impacting hospitals is quite alarming for patients and the NHS—the statistics contribute to our worries regarding the ‘quad-demic.’
He further emphasized, “With a week remaining to schedule your vaccination, I cannot overstate the necessity of booking an appointment to ensure protection against serious illness and to steer clear of ‘festive flu.’
Waiting lists show a slight decrease
Additional NHS statistics reveal that waiting lists for medical treatment have declined for the third consecutive month.
Numbers dropped from 7.57 million in September to 7.54 million in October, following a peak of 7.77 million in September of last year.
The count of individuals awaiting treatment longer than Sir Keir Starmer’s pledge of 18 weeks also saw a slight reduction, from 3.14 million in September to 3.11 million in October.
The number of patients who have been waiting for a year or more (234,885) represents the lowest figure since December 2020, down from a peak of 436,127 in March 2021.
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Concurrently, November has been recorded as the busiest month for A&Es, with 2.31 million attendees.
However, the percentage of patients being treated within the four-hour target has slid from 58.1% in October to 57% in November.
For ambulance services, the average handover time increased to 42 minutes and 59 seconds—longer than last year’s 39 minutes and 29 seconds during the same week.
