The NHS is preparing for an 'unprecedented wave' of flu infections this winter, with new data revealing a dramatic surge in hospital admissions well before the usual seasonal peak.
Sharp Rise in Hospital Bed Occupancy
Official figures show that last week, an average of 1,717 hospital beds in England were occupied by flu patients each day. This marks a staggering 56 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024, signalling an exceptionally early and severe start to the flu season.
Health experts have issued a stark warning that the peak of infections is still to come. This early surge is expected to place intense strain on hospitals and frontline services during the crucial run-up to the Christmas period.
NHS Leaders Voice 'Deepest Concerns'
Professor Sir Julian Redhead, the NHS national medical director, stated that the latest statistics confirm the service's 'deepest concerns' about winter demands. He issued a sobering caution that the combination of rising flu cases and potential industrial action by staff could push NHS teams close to 'breaking point' in the coming weeks.
In response, health officials are making an urgent plea to the public. They are strongly encouraging everyone who is eligible to get their flu vaccination immediately to build protection. The groups eligible for a free NHS flu jab include:
- All adults aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- Unpaid carers
- People with certain underlying health conditions
Ambulance Handover Delays Persist
The pressure is also evident at hospital front doors. While the number of the longest ambulance handover delays (over an hour) was lower than last year, the situation remains challenging. Data indicates that almost a third of ambulance arrivals still experienced waits of 30 minutes or more before patients could be admitted to A&E teams.
With the flu season arriving early and accelerating rapidly, the NHS faces a critical test of its resilience. The public are being urged to play their part by getting vaccinated and using services appropriately to help alleviate the mounting strain on the health service.
