Winter Virus Surge Returns as NHS Faces Ongoing Pressures

The NHS has reported a resurgence in winter virus cases following the Christmas and New Year period, with hospital admissions for influenza rising 9% week on week to 2,924 patients, according to figures published on 8 January 2026. The increase marks a reversal of a two-week declining trend and arrives as the health service contends with severe cold weather conditions.

Hospital data reveals concurrent increases in Covid-19 and Norovirus cases, whilst overall bed occupancy has climbed 5% to reach just below 92%. The statistics encompass New Year’s Eve, traditionally one of the most demanding periods for emergency services.

Ambulance services recorded more than 5,100 additional handovers last week compared with the corresponding week in 2025, totalling 101,177 handovers. However, the average handover time of 37 minutes and 44 seconds represented an improvement of more than 16 minutes year on year, despite deteriorating from the previous week’s performance.

The vaccination programme has delivered more than 18.6 million flu vaccines this season, an increase of over half a million compared with the same point last year. Capacity remains available, with thousands of appointments still accessible to eligible recipients. The NHS plans to issue reminders to parents of children with specific health conditions next week, encouraging them to arrange flu vaccinations through their local GP practices.

Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS national medical director, cautioned that the service faces continued challenges throughout the winter period. The cold weather has contributed to increased presentations of vulnerable patients with respiratory conditions in accident and emergency departments, alongside injuries resulting from slips and falls on icy surfaces.

Professor Pandit acknowledged the sustained efforts of NHS staff across the country whilst emphasising the importance of the public accessing care as usual and taking advantage of remaining vaccination opportunities.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting noted that whilst the NHS demonstrates improved preparedness and performance relative to the previous year, the current cold weather has introduced additional pressures on frontline services. He stressed the particular risks influenza poses to older people, young children, and those with underlying conditions, reiterating that vaccination remains the most effective protection. He urged all eligible individuals to receive their flu jab promptly to reduce hospital admissions and support NHS staff during the peak winter weeks.