Festive gatherings blamed for winter virus ‘bounce back’

Health & Fitness
9 Jan 2026 • 1:19 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Hospital admissions for flu in England have risen by nine per cent week-on-week, averaging 2,924 patients daily in the week ending January 4.
  • This increase follows a previous decline and is attributed to a 'bounce back' in winter viruses after Christmas and New Year gatherings.
  • Ambulance handover delays have sharply increased, with 33 per cent of patients waiting at least 30 minutes and 12 per cent waiting over an hour last week.
  • Overall hospital bed occupancy in England is up five per cent to just under 92 per cent, indicating significant pressure on services.
  • NHS officials warn that the health service is still facing immense pressure this winter, with rising flu levels, other viruses, and staff sickness contributing to a challenging period.

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