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Winter Warning: NHS Faces Flu Surge
17 Jan
Summary
- Influenza positivity is 13.9% weekly, a marginal decline.
- Hospital admissions remain at medium levels.
- Vulnerable groups are urged to get free NHS flu jabs.
As of 2026-01-17, laboratory surveillance of influenza indicates a marginal decline, with a weekly mean positivity rate of 13.9% for the week ending January 8, down from the previous week. Hospital admissions are currently at medium levels, with an overall admission rate of 7.19% per 100,000 population.
Despite these figures, NHS national medical director Professor Meghana Pandit has stated that the winter season's challenges for the NHS are far from over. Hospitals have recently experienced an increase in patients admitted with influenza and other respiratory viruses. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, face a heightened risk of severe complications.
These at-risk groups are strongly encouraged to obtain a complimentary flu jab via the NHS. Approximately 10 days are required for the vaccine to become fully effective. Pharmacies across the country also offer the NHS flu vaccine for free, often accepting walk-ins. More comprehensive information regarding the flu vaccine is available on the NHS website.
