NHS braces for flu crisis as hospitals face worst winter surge

Published: 12 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

The NHS is preparing for its most severe winter crisis in decades as rising flu cases put hospitals under extraordinary pressure. Medical services across the country face unprecedented demand, with emergency departments, GP surgeries, and ambulance services already struggling to cope with record patient numbers. Health leaders warn that conditions are set to worsen in the coming fortnight, urging the public to get vaccinated to reduce serious illness and protect vulnerable family members during the Christmas period.

Recent data from NHS England shows that an average of 2,660 people were admitted to hospital daily last week with flu-related symptoms, marking a 55 percent increase from the previous week and filling the capacity of multiple NHS trusts. One hundred and six patients required intensive care, most experiencing severe breathing difficulties. The surge comes alongside rising cases of respiratory syncytial virus and Covid-19, as well as a highly virulent H3N2 flu strain, which experts say is exacerbating pressure on already stretched healthcare services.

Prof Meghana Pandit, NHS England’s joint medical director, stated that hospitals are facing an “extremely challenging few weeks ahead” and warned that the flu peak remains uncertain. Authorities have highlighted that early circulation of the mutated flu strain and reduced natural immunity contribute to rising hospitalisations and heightened risk for older adults. To reduce strain, officials emphasise that vaccinations remain highly effective in preventing severe disease, despite low uptake in several at-risk populations.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged people to get vaccinated promptly, stressing that time is running out to ensure protection ahead of the festive season. Dr Conall Watson, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, reassured the public that vaccines are available and highly effective at preventing serious illness. However, uptake among certain groups remains worryingly low, with under-65s with long-term health conditions showing only 37.4 percent coverage, pregnant women 35.6 percent, and young children between 41 and 42 percent. Conversely, vaccination among over-65s remains comparatively high at 71.7 percent.

Medical experts stress that vaccination should be combined with practical measures to limit virus spread. Ed Hutchinson, a professor of molecular and cellular virology at Glasgow University, advised using masks, practising social distancing, and working remotely when possible to reduce transmission. Shereen Hussein, a professor of health policy, urged the public to prioritise safe visits to older relatives, ensuring good ventilation, wearing masks when unwell, and opting for video calls if needed. These precautions aim to minimise exposure while maintaining important social connections during the holiday season.

The NHS also faces additional challenges due to staffing issues and industrial action threats. Keir Starmer and Health Secretary Wes Streeting have criticised the British Medical Association’s planned strikes by resident doctors next week, describing the action as irresponsible amid rising healthcare demand. Sir Jim Mackey, NHS England chief executive, called the strike “cruel” and “calculated” to disrupt services at a time of extreme pressure. Officials hope that resident doctors will accept the latest offer to avoid further disruptions and protect patient care.

NHS hospitals have begun declaring critical incidents in response to soaring demand, signalling that resources are under significant stress and external assistance may be required. Meanwhile, NHS England data also revealed that planned hospital care waiting lists have reached 7.4 million, slightly up from 7.39 million in September, indicating that systemic pressures extend beyond seasonal flu surges. Dr Vicky Price, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, warned that the flu crisis only exacerbates a “longstanding and predictable breakdown” in NHS capacity and workforce shortages, underscoring persistent structural challenges.

Health authorities continue to emphasise vaccination as the first line of defence, combined with practical safety measures. Public messaging stresses that immunisation not only protects the individual but also shields vulnerable community members from severe illness. While flu vaccination coverage remains uneven, officials hope that renewed awareness campaigns and clear guidance will increase uptake in critical populations. Pharmacies report minor local shortages, though overall vaccine supply remains sufficient to meet demand nationwide.

The NHS is now entering a period that could define the resilience of the healthcare system amid concurrent respiratory infections and workforce pressures. Flu, Covid, and RSV collectively risk overwhelming hospitals unless public cooperation increases through vaccination and careful preventive measures. Leaders continue to highlight that timely vaccination, combined with responsible behaviour, is essential to reduce serious illness and help the NHS maintain patient care standards during the festive season.