The number of hospitalised patients with flu in the United Kingdom (UK) has increased fourfold in the last month, raising significant concern among National Health Service (NHS) officials.
Recent data indicates that 5,000 patients were receiving treatment for the virus in hospitals at the end of last week, which is nearly 3.5 times greater than the previous year, although still not as high as the numbers from 2022.
On Christmas Day, 4,102 patients were hospitalised with flu, sharply increasing to 5,074 by December 29. This indicates a dramatic increase in cases, quadrupling since November 29, when hospitalisations were 1,190.
To compound the issue, hospitals also face elevated numbers of norovirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases. Critical care units reported an average of 211 flu patients daily, while norovirus and RSV occurrences remain significantly above last year’s levels.
According to the most recent vaccination statistics, 33% of pregnant women, 37% of at-risk individuals, and 73% of those over 65 have received the vaccine.
Experiencing a rise in flu cases during winter is common. The UK Health Security Agency has stated that “this was predicted” and has encouraged eligible individuals to receive a free flu vaccination, especially among health and social care staff.
