What is the current flu situation for the NHS?

Flu admissions have significantly increased, leading the NHS to anticipate a challenging December with record patient numbers.

When should I take paracetamol versus ibuprofen for flu symptoms?

Paracetamol is recommended for fever, while ibuprofen is better for body aches. They can also be taken together.

Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time for flu?

Yes, you can safely take both paracetamol and ibuprofen together if your symptoms are severe, as they work differently.

Home / Health / Flu Admissions Surge: NHS Faces December Crisis

Flu Admissions Surge: NHS Faces December Crisis

11 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Flu hospital admissions increased by over half in one week.
Paracetamol is better for fever, ibuprofen for body aches.
Both paracetamol and ibuprofen can be taken together.

Flu Admissions Surge: NHS Faces December Crisis

The National Health Service is confronting a "worst-case scenario" this December as flu hospital admissions have surged by more than half in just one week. Data indicates a new record for daily flu patients occupying hospital beds at this time of year, with 2,660 patients on average.

Amidst circulating RSV, COVID-19, and other winter illnesses, experts offer guidance on symptom relief. Pharmacist Abbas Kanani suggests paracetamol is most effective for reducing fever, while ibuprofen is better suited for alleviating body aches due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Kanani also clarified that individuals can safely take both paracetamol and ibuprofen simultaneously if experiencing severe discomfort, as they target different symptoms. However, he cautioned that these medications are not effective for coughs or nasal congestion, which require specific cold and flu remedies.

This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.