Flu admissions have jumped to 2,660 daily as health chiefs warn norovirus is also spreading rapidly through wards – the dual virus surge is putting unprecedented pressure on the NHS
Brits are grappling with another rampant virus sweeping across the UK, as a severe flu crisis pushes the NHS to its limits. The number of individuals hospitalised in England due to flu is at an unprecedented level for this time of year, having surged by 55% within a week, according to NHS data.
Last week saw an average of 2,660 flu patients admitted to hospital each day, a significant increase from the previous week’s figure of 1,717. This time last year, the count was at 1,861 patients, while in 2023 it was a mere 402.
However, Brits now find themselves battling a brutal new virus that is rapidly filling up NHS hospital beds – just days before Christmas. Health officials are sounding the alarm about another equally vicious virus currently circulating, adding further pressure during the winter months.
Norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug, is reportedly wreaking havoc in hospital wards and care homes. The latest statistics reveal a staggering 35% surge in the number of patients suffering from the illness in hospitals, reports the Express.
Norovirus is notoriously infectious and can quickly spread throughout hospitals, affecting other patients and nursing staff, pushing an already stretched workforce to breaking point.
To contain the virus and prevent wider outbreaks, many hospitals are compelled to close wards, limit visitations, and reroute ambulances, measures that can be particularly challenging for those affected over the festive period.
Norovirus, commonly known as the “vomit bug”, triggers its telltale signs through a sudden onslaught of sickness, diarrhoea and dehydration, with the very young, elderly and those with existing health issues bearing the brunt.
Whilst the majority of those struck down bounce back within 48 to 72 hours, serious cases can result in hospital admission.
The twin surge of both winter bugs has prompted health secretary Wes Streeting to sound the alarm over a “tidal wave of flu tearing through our hospitals”.
He added: “We are working with the NHS to make sure it is able to cope with this as best as possible.”
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS national medical director, has issued a stark warning that medics, nursing staff and paramedics are all being “pushed to their limit”, cautioning that the UK is currently grappling with its worst-case scenario.
She added: “With record demand for A&E and ambulances and an impending resident doctors’ strike, this unprecedented wave of super flu is leaving the NHS facing a worst-case scenario for this time of year – with staff being pushed to the limit to keep providing the best possible care for patients.
“The numbers of patients in hospital with flu is extremely high for this time of year. Even worse, it continues to rise and the peak is not in sight yet, so the NHS faces an extremely challenging few weeks ahead.”
She added: “We have prepared earlier for winter than ever before, and stress-tested services to ensure people have a range of ways to get the help they need and avoid needing to go to A&E.
“For non-life-threatening care, people should call NHS 111 or use 111 online, which can direct you to the most appropriate place, and use A&E and 999 for life threatening conditions and serious injuries.”