Flu hospital admissions in England have seen a significant rise, quadrupling within the last month.
The UK Health Security Agency reports an increase in flu cases compared to last year, with hospital admission rates reaching 14.09 per 100,000 by the end of December 2024.
Experts suggest that a delayed flu vaccine rollout has contributed to the surge, alongside existing strains from Covid, RSV, and norovirus.
Hospitalization rates are particularly high among older populations, with the highest rates for those aged 85 and over.
Vaccination uptake varies significantly, especially among younger and at-risk populations, leaving millions unprotected ahead of peak flu season.