Flu cases at record high for time of year as NHS warns of 'unprecedented' outbreak

BBC NewsThursday, December 4, 2025 at 4:22:32 PM
Flu cases at record high for time of year as NHS warns of 'unprecedented' outbreak
  • Flu cases in England have reached a record high for this time of year, with an average of 1,700 patients hospitalized last week, representing over a 50% increase compared to the same period last year. The NHS has described this situation as an 'unprecedented' outbreak, highlighting the urgent need for healthcare resources.
  • This surge in flu cases poses significant challenges for the NHS, which is already grappling with high demand for services. The increase in hospitalizations could strain healthcare facilities and impact the ability to provide timely care to patients, especially during the winter months.
  • The current flu outbreak is part of a broader trend of increasing pressures on the NHS, including rising numbers of patients leaving emergency departments without treatment and delays in diagnostic tests. These issues reflect systemic challenges within the healthcare system, raising concerns about the overall capacity to manage public health crises effectively.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Merino may keep place as Arsenal striker, Rodri still unavailable for Manchester City – football live
NeutralWorld Affairs
Arsenal's Mikel Merino may retain his position as striker as the team prepares for upcoming matches, while Manchester City's Rodri remains unavailable due to injury. This situation follows a recent Premier League clash where West Ham managed a late equalizer against Manchester United, highlighting the competitive nature of the league.
Reeves will not face ethics probe over pre-Budget remarks
NegativeWorld Affairs
Chancellor Rachel Reeves will not face an ethics investigation over her pre-Budget remarks, despite accusations from the Conservative Party that she portrayed an overly-negative economic outlook to justify tax increases. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has also decided against probing her or the Treasury regarding these allegations.
Call for 'Covid-style' help amid water disruption
PositiveWorld Affairs
Tunbridge Wells MP Mike Martin has called for an £18.5 million recovery package to support businesses in Kent and Sussex amid significant water supply disruptions. This appeal comes in light of a recent boil water warning affecting 24,000 homes in the region, which has raised serious concerns about water safety and access.
Steve Smith on top again after he resumes Ashes rivalry with Jofra Archer | Geoff Lemon
PositiveWorld Affairs
Steve Smith has resumed his Ashes rivalry with Jofra Archer, showcasing his batting prowess as Australia pulls ahead in the ongoing series. Despite Archer's attempts, he has yet to dismiss Smith in a Test match, highlighting the intense competition between the two players. The atmosphere surrounding their encounters has become legendary, particularly following Archer's impactful debut at Lord's in 2019.
Immigration detention centre officially reopens
NeutralWorld Affairs
The Campsfield Immigration Removal Centre has officially reopened, with the first detainees arriving on Wednesday and Thursday. This marks a significant development in the immigration enforcement landscape in the region.
Abdusattorov overwhelms rivals at Arsenal but England hit back in style
PositiveWorld Affairs
Nodirbek Abdusattorov from Uzbekistan excelled at the XTX London Classic held at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium, achieving a remarkable performance with a score of 7 after eight rounds. Despite a challenging start for English players, they rallied in the eighth round, with all four winning their matches, showcasing their competitive spirit.
60 delivery riders face deportation after illegal work crackdown
NegativeWorld Affairs
The UK Home Office has initiated a crackdown on illegal work, resulting in the arrest of 171 delivery riders over a week in November, with 60 facing potential deportation. This enforcement action highlights the government's ongoing efforts to address unauthorized employment within the gig economy.
Suspect arrested in pipe bomb incident on eve of 2021 Capitol riot
NegativeWorld Affairs
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the pipe bomb incident that occurred on the eve of the 2021 Capitol riot. The bombs were placed on the night of January 5, 2021, and were discovered as rioters began to storm the Capitol the following day.