Flu cases fall but UKHSA urges continued care over Christmas
Flu levels across the UK have declined for a second consecutive week, according to the latest surveillance data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The agency’s week 51 report, covering 15 to 21 December, shows flu activity decreased across all indicators, though the virus continues to circulate at medium levels.
The proportion of positive flu tests fell to 17.2% from 21.1% the previous week, and hospital admissions dropped from 9.98 to 7.85 per 100,000 people.
Dr Jamie Lopez-Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Some encouraging news for the festive season as we’re seeing flu levels continuing to decline and fewer people having to be admitted to hospital over the past week. But the virus is still very much with us and with RSV at similar levels as previous weeks, everyone, especially those most vulnerable to these winter bugs, needs to take care to protect themselves or help not to spread these viruses to others.”
RSV activity remained at medium levels, with hospital admissions slightly up from 3.63 to 4.07 per 100,000. Emergency attendances for acute bronchiolitis decreased.
COVID-19 indicators stayed stable, with positivity at 1.6% and hospitalisations falling slightly to 0.91 per 100,000.
UKHSA advised that anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms should minimise contact with others, especially older or vulnerable people.
The agency reminded people that washing hands regularly, ventilating indoor spaces, and wearing a face covering in public places when unwell can all reduce the spread of infection.
Dr Lopez-Bernal added: “This is particularly important over Christmas as families come together to celebrate. So if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms you should try to minimise contact with others. There are simple steps we can all take to protect one another when mixing indoors. Washing hands regularly and ensuring indoor spaces are well ventilated helps and we advise those who have symptoms and need to go out, to consider wearing a face covering in indoor public spaces.”
UKHSA warned that while flu levels are declining, the virus remains unpredictable and could rebound in January. Vaccination remains available for eligible groups, including those over 65, pregnant women, children, and people with long-term health conditions.
Dr Lopez-Bernal said: “Flu is always unpredictable, is still circulating and could bounce back even further in the new year as we have seen in past years. For anyone eligible who is still not vaccinated, it’s not too late to get protected for the rest of the winter, but time is running out. Nobody wants to start the new year with flu so if appointments are still available near you, please make an appointment as soon as you can as vaccination can make all the difference in preventing severe illness and hospitalisation.”
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has also reintroduced mandatory face masks in all clinical areas across hospitals in north Wales following a rise in flu and other winter viruses.
The measure applies to patients, visitors and staff, with the health board urging people to wear masks, practise good hand hygiene, and stay away from hospitals if unwell to help protect vulnerable patients during the busy winter period.
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