Flu cases are at their highest levels among children aged 5 to 14 in the UK, with concerns growing that adult cases will rise when schools and nurseries close for the holiday season. The UK Health Security Agency has also reported an uptick in cases of norovirus, known as the winter vomiting bug, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is a major cause of chest infections in babies.
The NHS revealed that norovirus cases are up 10% compared to the previous week and 64% from last year. Additionally, 152 children are being admitted to hospital daily with RSV, a significant increase from the 107 admissions at the same time last year.
Health experts are warning of a so-called “quad-demic” this winter, where four common viral illnesses — flu, norovirus, RSV, and COVID-19 — peak simultaneously, increasing the strain on health services. Dr. David Lloyd, a GP, explained that the risk of contracting all four illnesses rises during the winter months as people spend more time indoors with family and friends.
To combat the rising cases, the NHS is urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Flu vaccines are available to over-65s, pregnant women, and those with certain health conditions, with jabs being offered at pharmacies, Christmas markets, football clubs, and supermarkets. RSV vaccines are recommended for pregnant women to protect their newborns, and for adults aged 75 to 79.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s chief, expressed concern over the “tidal wave” of seasonal illnesses hitting hospitals, adding that the “quad-demic” could worsen pressures on the NHS. He emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated to avoid severe illness during the festive season.
In addition to the seasonal virus surge, NHS figures show a slight decrease in waiting lists for treatment. As of October, the number of people waiting for treatment dropped from 7.57 million to 7.54 million, marking the third consecutive month of improvement. However, emergency departments remain under intense pressure, with a record 2.31 million A&E attendances in November. The percentage of patients being seen within the four-hour target slipped slightly, from 58.1% in October to 57% in November.
As the NHS faces unprecedented demand this winter, the public is urged to take preventive measures, including getting vaccinated, to reduce the impact of flu and other viral illnesses.