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LONDON, Dec 11 (Reuters) – Hospitals across Britain are bracing for what health leaders describe as a “worst-case scenario” as an unprecedented wave of so-called super flu drives a sharp rise in admissions.
Health authorities reported that flu-related hospitalisations jumped 55% in just one week, intensifying pressure on a healthcare system already operating under strain.
Flu patients hit highest level for this time of year
NHS England said an average of 2,660 patients were in hospital beds with flu last week, marking the highest level ever recorded in Britain for this point in the winter season. The health service described the situation as an “unprecedented wave of super flu”.
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS National Medical Director, said in a statement that flu patient numbers are “extremely high for this time of year” and continuing to rise.
She warned that the peak is not yet in sight, meaning the NHS faces an “extremely challenging” period in the weeks ahead.
Mask advice and renewed push for vaccinations
In response, healthcare leaders have urged anyone who feels unwell to wear face masks when using public transport. Some hospitals are also requiring masks to be worn.
Officials are encouraging more people to book a flu jab as the virus spreads rapidly across the country.
Early and severe flu season across Europe
Britain’s outbreak comes as Europe faces an unusually early and severe flu season, with health authorities warning that rising case numbers are being driven by a mutated strain of the virus.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said last month that detections were increasing “much earlier than usual” and urged vulnerable groups to get vaccinated “without delay.” Related reporting is available here: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/eu-health-regulator-urges-immediate-vaccinations-amid-early-surge-flu-cases-2025-11-20/.
Doctors’ strike set to add further pressure from Dec. 17
Adding to concerns in Britain, a planned five-day strike by resident doctors is due to begin on December 17. Resident doctors are qualified physicians who make up nearly half of the country’s medical workforce.
In an effort to prevent the walkout, health minister Wes Streeting presented the doctors’ union with a new package of working conditions on Wednesday, which the union is currently considering. Background on the dispute is covered here: https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/sustainable-finance-reporting/uk-doctors-consider-whether-new-offer-is-enough-end-strikes-2025-12-10/.
