NHS braces for ‘unprecedented flu wave’ as hospitalised cases in England rise

Average of 1,717 flu patients in beds last week, up 56% on a year ago, after unusually early' start to season

The NHS is facing an unprecedented flu wave", a senior healthcare leader said, as the number of people with the illness in hospitals across England hit a record high.

The statistics, published by NHS England as part of its first weekly snapshot of the performance of hospitals this winter, found that an average of 1,717 flu patients were in beds each day last week - more than 50% higher than last year - including 69 patients whose condition was critical.