UK heading for ‘unprecedented flu wave’ as NHS issues urgent warning

Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to flu (Image: Getty)

The UK is on track for the worst flu epidemic in recent years with “no peak in sight yet”, NHS chiefs have warned. They said the NHS is facing an unprecedented flu wave which will coincide with the latest round of strikes by doctors.

Data shows an average of 1,717 patients were in hospital with flu last week — the highest on record for this time of year and 56% higher than the same time last year. NHS national medical director for urgent and emergency care, Professor Julian Redhead said: “Today’s numbers confirm our deepest concerns: the health service is bracing for an unprecedented flu wave this winter.

Health chiefs urged people to come forward if eligible for a flu jab (Image: Getty)

“Cases are incredibly high for this time of year and there is no peak in sight yet.

“The NHS has prepared earlier for winter than ever before, but despite that we know that ballooning flu cases coinciding with strikes may stretch our staff close to breaking point in the coming weeks.

“There have never been more ways for people can get the care they need, so for non-life-threatening care, people should call NHS 111 or use 111 online, which can direct you to the most appropriate place.

“As always, use A&E & 999 for life threatening conditions and serious injuries, and with just a couple of weeks left to ensure maximum immunity from flu for Christmas day, I urge anyone eligible to come forward to get their jab.”

Ambulances handed over 99,000 patients at hospitals last week — 4,500 more than in the same week last year. 

Non-emergency services are also experiencing mounting pressure, with NHS 111 receiving 11,338 more calls than the same week last year.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said progress in improving emergency care and ambulance waiting times was being “put in real jeopardy” by members of the British Medical Association who plan to walk out over five days before Christmas.

He added that the “reckless behaviour” of the union’s leadership “will put more patients are risk and bear down hard on their NHS colleagues in the run up to Christmas”.

Mr Streeting said: "We will do all we can to we can to weather this storm. I am determined that with the proper planning, record investment and modernisation this government is bringing in, we'll have a more resilient NHS for this winter and beyond."