The National Health Service has provided a crucial update on flu levels across Britain as the country moves into 2026, revealing a mixed picture of stabilising infections but persistently high pressure on hospitals.
Flu Cases Show Signs of Stabilising
According to the latest NHS data, the number of recorded flu cases has begun to steady. However, the figures remain significant, with over 3,000 instances of the virus confirmed in the week before Christmas. New statistics published on December 31st show a slight decrease in infections in the lead-up to December 25th.
Professor Meghana Pandit, the NHS national medical director, acknowledged there are "signs of improvement" and that the health service is in "calmer waters." She extended thanks to NHS staff for working under "extraordinary pressure" and to the public for getting vaccinated.
Hospital Beds Near Capacity as Winter Viruses Circulate
Despite the encouraging trend in flu rates, the NHS has clarified that hospitals across the UK remain exceptionally busy. The data shows that approximately 95% of all adult hospital beds were occupied, with an average of 94,118 patients in hospital each day.
Other seasonal illnesses continue to place a burden on services. On average, 707 patients were hospitalised with Covid, while norovirus led to 285 daily hospital admissions last week.
Vaccination Uptake Increases and Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
In a positive development, the uptake of the flu jab has risen compared to the same period last year. The NHS reported that half a million more people have received their flu vaccination this winter.
Professor Pandit issued a stark warning, stating: "We’re not out of danger yet with temperatures set to drop in the coming days." She urged the public to use emergency services responsibly, reserving 999 and A&E for life-threatening emergencies and using NHS 111 for other conditions. She also encouraged all eligible individuals who have not yet been vaccinated to come forward, emphasising that "it’s not too late."
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting commented on the winter preparations, saying: "This year we planned earlier than ever for winter, and that preparation is paying off." He pointed to improvements such as reduced ambulance handover times and more accessible care, attributing progress to modernisation, strong clinical leadership, and empowering local leaders.
However, Mr. Streeting echoed the cautious tone, adding: "We are not out of the woods yet, with flu continuing to be a challenge." He expressed deep gratitude for the "professionalism, resilience and commitment" of NHS staff throughout the challenging Christmas period.
