The United Kingdom is battling a severe flu outbreak, with more than 5,000 patients hospitalised by the end of December. The National Health Service (NHS) reported an average of 4,469 flu-related hospitalisations daily in the week leading up to December 29, a nearly 3.5-fold increase from the same period in 2023.

On Christmas Day, 4,102 patients were in hospital with flu, which surged to 5,074 by December 29. This marks a dramatic rise from November 29, when hospitalisations were at 1,190.

Adding to the pressure, hospitals are also dealing with high numbers of norovirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases. Critical care units reported an average of 211 flu patients daily, while norovirus and RSV cases remain significantly above last year’s levels.

To manage the surge, the NHS has introduced measures including 1,300 additional beds and enhanced coordination centres.