Overview
- The first NHS situation reports of the season counted an average of 1,717 flu patients in English hospitals each day last week, including 69 in critical care.
- Compared with the same week in 2024, flu hospitalisations rose 56% in England, while Scotland averaged 724 patients per day, up 70% year on year.
- Officials described the figures as a record for this point in the season and said the health service is preparing for a significant wave of infections.
- On BBC Breakfast, GP Dr Mohit Mandiratta said experts are discussing mutations in the circulating strain that may increase spread and severity.
- Dr Mandiratta urged vulnerable people to get the flu jab and advised hand hygiene, good ventilation and staying home when unwell, with viewers directed to NHS guidance.