Last week saw a record number of patients hospitalised daily with the H3N2 “superflu” virus.
The so-called ‘superflu’ has been spreading through the uK. (Image: Getty)
The UK is grappling with its worst-ever flu outbreak, affecting half of NHS trusts, as schools are forced to reintroduce Covid-like measures. Last week saw an average of 2,660 patients hospitalised daily due to the H3N2 “superflu virus” – a record high for this period and a 55% increase from the previous week. The number of norovirus patients in hospitals has also surged by 35%, although cases remain “within expected levels”, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.
A MailOnline analysis revealed unprecedented flu levels at 70 out of 141 trusts – the governing bodies of neighbouring hospitals. University Hospitals Birmingham bore the brunt, with over 250 Brits admitted as of December 7. The “subclade K” or H3N2 strain of flu is believed to be fuelling the infections. Amid the escalating flu cases, pharmacies have started issuing warnings about dwindling flu vaccine stocks due to soaring demand.
Eligible groups have been urged to get their flu vaccine on the NHS. (Image: Getty)
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS national medical director, said: “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 number 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.”
By the end of next week, the UKHSA forecasts that approximately 8,000 patients across England could be hospitalised with the virus – far exceeding the previous record of 5,400.
Whilst the majority of flu sufferers will make a full recovery at home, vulnerable groups, including young children and those aged over 65, face a heightened risk of severe illness requiring hospital admission.
Brits experiencing any flu or cold symptoms are being told to mask up in public places. The Government is not changing its guidance, but Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged people to use “common sense”.
The UK Health Security Agency said people should wear masks if they feel unwell and need to go outside to protect others.
Daniel Elkeles, chief executive of NHS Providers, a body representing NHS trusts, warned that face coverings should be worn on public transport to tackle the “very nasty strain of flu.”
The flu outbreak has already forced at least three schools to close their doors, whilst others have reintroduced Covid-era protocols as hundreds of staff and pupils fall ill, with headteachers describing the situation as reminiscent of “being back in Covid times”.
South Bank Primary School in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, announced it “would not be safe” to proceed with its Christmas lunch, plays and craft days.
Budehaven Community School in Cornwall has become the latest educational establishment to shut its doors due to “unprecedented” and “increasing incidences” of flu and Group A Streptococcus infection.
St Martin’s secondary school in Caerphilly, South Wales, temporarily closed after 242 pupils and 12 members of staff fell ill with norovirus symptoms.
Meanwhile, Congleton High School in Cheshire closed for three days a fortnight ago following high numbers of pupils experiencing flu-like symptoms.
