Flu infections lead to 70% rise in hospital cases as warning issued ahead of Christmas
The NHS has said that a ‘tidal wave’ of flu infections has led to a 70 per cent increase in hospital cases across England over the last seven days, with a warning issued ahead of Christmas.
An average of 1,861 patients with flu were in hospital every day last week, up from 1,099 in the previous seven days – 3.5 times higher than this time last year.
Cases of norovirus and RSV are also on the rise. Norovirus cases are up 10 per cent on last week and 64 per cent on last year.
One hundred and fifty two children were in hospital with RSV every day, up from 107 this time in 2023.
The NHS has raised fears of a ‘quad-demic’ over winter as flu, norovirus, RSV and COVID-19 are currently circulating.
The risk of catching all four illnesses at the same time is increased at Christmas, when people spend more time indoors with friends and family.
People who are eligible for a flu jab are being urged to get vaccinated. Over 65s, pregnant women and people with some health conditions can receive a free vaccination at their GP surgery or a pharmacy.
