Following the festive period of Christmas and New Year, flu cases have surged dramatically, prompting a warning from a leading NHS doctor that “the worst is far from over.” According to recent data, hospitalizations due to flu have increased by 9% compared to the previous week, reaching a total of 2,924 patients. This rise comes after a short period of decline in flu cases.

The number of hospital admissions for Norovirus and Covid has also gone up compared to the previous week, contributing to an overall bed occupancy rate of nearly 92%, a 5% increase. Professor Meghana Pandit, the NHS national medical director, emphasized, “The NHS is still facing severe challenges this winter, with a noticeable uptick in flu and other respiratory illnesses being treated in hospitals recently.”

Pandit also noted, “The cold snap is causing additional pressure, as we are dealing with more vulnerable individuals experiencing respiratory issues and injuries from slips on ice, making it an exceptionally busy time for A&E departments.”

She continued, “NHS staff are working tirelessly, with teams across the nation committed to providing the necessary care for all patients.”

Pandit encouraged the public to seek medical care when needed and highlighted the ongoing availability of flu vaccinations, stressing their importance. “There are still ample opportunities for people to get vaccinated and shield themselves from flu,” she stated.

To date, the NHS has administered more than 18.6 million flu vaccines this season, surpassing last year’s numbers by over half a million. There are still numerous appointments available for those seeking vaccination protection.

Next week, the NHS will send thousands of reminders to parents of children with certain health conditions to come forward for their flu jabs, which will be available from their local GP practice.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Today’s data shows we are not out of the woods yet. While the NHS is better prepared and performing more strongly than this time last year thanks to the tireless work of staff, the current cold snap is putting fresh pressure on frontline services.

“Flu can be serious, particularly for older people, young children and those with underlying conditions, and vaccination remains the best protection. I urge everyone who is eligible to get their flu jab as soon as possible.

“By acting now, we can help keep people out of hospital, support our NHS staff through the toughest weeks of winter, and ensure emergency care is there for those who need it most.”

Ambulance crews were also inundated last week, with 101,177 handovers. The average handover time was 37 minutes 44 seconds, which was more than 16 minutes quicker than the same period last year.