The NHS has issued a warning that there is a new flu variant which has unique symptoms and those that have had the flu jab will not be protected.
Since the start of the year those taken to hospital with flu has soared with 2,924 a day sent to hospital up to 4 January 2026.
Critical incidents have been declared at four hospital trusts amid “significant and sustained pressures” within their services.
One trust in Kent and three in Surrey have all declared critical incidents as the new flu strain is spreading across the UK.
NHS national medical director Professor Meghana Pandit said: “It’s clear that the worst is far from over for the NHS this winter, with hospitals again experiencing a rise in patients admitted with flu and other respiratory virus cases last week.”
Pandit added, “It remains important that people come forward for care as usual and there are still plenty of opportunities to get vaccinated and get protected against flu.”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said, “Flu can be serious, particularly for older people, young children and those with underlying conditions, and vaccination remains the best protection.
“I urge everyone who is eligible to get their flu jab as soon as possible.
Lung expert Dr Juanita Mora said, “This new strain has symptoms of really high fevers. It has a really bad cough that won’t go away, very phlegmy, and also vomiting and diarrhoea and lots of joint aches as well as muscle aches.”
