Overview
- New NHS figures show an average of 2,660 flu patients in hospital each day last week, up 55% week on week, with 106 in critical care and no peak yet identified.
- UKHSA reports a genetically drifted A(H3N2) subclade K is now dominant nationwide, with vaccines still offering strong protection against severe illness.
- Hospitals report severe capacity pressure including corridor care and makeshift clinical spaces, and several trusts have reintroduced masking in clinical areas.
- Public health advice urges people who are unwell to stay at home and to wear a mask if they must go out, as children aged 5–14 show the highest positivity and some schools close or reinstate precautions.
- More than 17.4 million people have received a flu jab, yet uptake gaps persist as UKHSA warns this is the last chance for protection before Christmas and a five‑day resident doctor strike set for December 17 threatens additional strain.