What is the current flu situation in the South East?

Flu hospital admissions are rising in the South East, with a 20% increase compared to last year.

How are doctor strikes affecting the South East flu outbreak?

The industrial action by resident doctors is compounding the pressure on hospitals already dealing with an increase in flu admissions.

Are flu cases increasing across the entire country?

Nationally, the rate of flu infections appears to be levelling off, but the South East is still seeing a rise in hospital admissions.

Home / Health / Flu Admissions Surge in South East Amid Doctor Strikes

Flu Admissions Surge in South East Amid Doctor Strikes

19 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Flu hospital admissions in the South East have significantly increased.
Admissions rose 20% compared to the same week last year.
The surge coincides with industrial action by resident doctors.

Flu Admissions Surge in South East Amid Doctor Strikes

The South East of England is experiencing a notable increase in hospital admissions caused by the flu. Managers in the region have reported that the number of patients admitted due to influenza continues to climb.

NHS England has placed the area on alert due to this escalating outbreak. The situation is exacerbated by ongoing industrial action from resident doctors, adding further pressure to healthcare services. Last week alone saw 2,144 patient admissions, a significant rise from the 1,779 admissions recorded during the same week in 2024, marking a 20% increase.

While these figures highlight a concerning trend in the South East, the national picture suggests that the rate of flu infections may be stabilizing. However, the South East's ongoing admission spike, combined with the impact of doctor strikes, underscores a critical period for the region's healthcare system.