Hospital admissions for influenza across England have surged dramatically, with daily patient numbers now far exceeding those seen at the same time last year.
Sharp Rise in Flu Cases Confirmed
According to the latest official statistics from the NHS, the number of people occupying hospital beds with flu in England reached 2,040 on 30 November 2025. This represents a significant increase of 74% when compared to the 1,175 patients recorded on the same date in the previous year.
This data forms the first set of winter statistics for the 2025/26 season, highlighting the early pressure on health services. The report also covers other critical operational challenges, including ambulance handover delays, cases of COVID-19 and norovirus, and levels of staff sickness absence.
Broader Health Service Pressures
The figures indicate that the winter virus season is already placing a substantial burden on the NHS. The inclusion of data on ambulance delays and staff illness paints a picture of a healthcare system facing multiple, simultaneous pressures as the colder months begin.
While the flu patient count is a primary concern, the presence of other viruses like COVID-19 and norovirus complicates hospital infection control and bed management. High rates of staff sickness further strain the system's capacity to respond effectively.
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