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NHS Faces Dual Threat: Flu Surge & Doctor Strikes
18 Dec
Summary
- Flu cases are surging, driven by the H3N2 strain, increasing pressure on secondary care.
- Norovirus cases have also risen, occupying hundreds of beds daily.
- Doctor strikes compound the strain on frontline NHS services during peak season.
The National Health Service is confronting a critical juncture as a substantial increase in flu cases, spearheaded by the H3N2 strain, places immense pressure on healthcare facilities. This dominant strain is known to cause severe illness, particularly impacting vulnerable populations. Regional surges are evident, with a notable 40% rise in the South West and a 39% increase in the East of England, while cases in the North West have seen a slight dip.
Beyond general wards, critical care occupancy for flu patients has climbed to 128 from 106 the previous week. Concurrently, an average of 427 beds daily are occupied by patients with norovirus-like symptoms, marking a 21% week-on-week escalation. These escalating figures are occurring against the backdrop of a five-day strike by resident doctors over pay and working conditions.
