The latest flu hospitalisation data has been published this morning nationally.  In the North West there has been a 36.6% increase in the number of people in hospital with flu:

• Data up to 30/11 – 295 people on average in hospital with flu
• Data up to 7/12 – 403 people on average in hospital with flu

Data source can be found here: Web-File-Timeseries-UEC-Daily-SitRep-Mp302a.xlsx.

National colleagues have issued this release around the data as a whole: NHS England » NHS facing ‘worst case scenario’ December amid ‘super flu’ surge.

Dr Michael Gregory, Medical Director at NHS England in the North West said:

“The NHS across the North West is facing unprecedented demand for services as winter pressures, increases in the early wave of super flu cases and upcoming industrial action are all adding to usual winter pressures.  With the rising number of patients in hospital with flu being extremely high for this time of year, we are asking eligible people to come forward for flu vaccinations as soon as they can to ensure they get this important protection and to avoid becoming seriously ill.

“The flu vaccine is our best defence against the flu virus, and it also helps to reduce pressure on hospitals and hard-working NHS staff who will be working flat out over the festive season.

“If you are unsure where to go for health advice and support, NHS 111 can help find the best place for your condition and it is available 24/7 online at 111.nhs.uk, on the NHS App and by calling 111.”