Frontline doctors are warning of a rise in winter virus cases, particularly flu, with NHS data showing a 53% increase in the number of flu patients in hospitals in the past week. Norovirus cases have also risen by 15%, with an average of 406 people in hospital each day. RSV cases among children are up by 11%. Despite these challenges, NHS measures, including the rollout of care “traffic control” centres and increased staffing, have helped. However, staff absences are rising, with an average of 47,018 staff off each day last week. The NHS is also preparing for further industrial action by junior doctors with a six-day strike from January 3.
https://www.england.nhs.uk/2023/12/top-ae-doctors-warn-of-rising-pressure-from-winter-viruses/