Flu cases rise 33% in South East as hospitals face dual impact of winter pressures and doctor strikes
Kent residents urged to use NHS wisely and get vaccinated
Hospitals in the South East, including Kent and Medway, are experiencing a sharp rise in flu cases, coinciding with doctor strikes and growing winter pressures. Health leaders are urging residents to use NHS services carefully to ensure emergency care can remain available for those in most need.
The NHS reported a 33% increase in flu patients in hospital across the South East, rising from an average of 202 cases to 269 cases last week.
This surge follows record-breaking national levels of flu admissions and increased demand for healthcare as the festive season approaches.
Dr Kate Langford, Chief Medical Officer of NHS Kent and Medway, warned that hospitals are facing one of the busiest periods of the year, compounded by industrial action.
Speaking about the strikes, Dr Langford said, “We’ve become well-practised in preparing plans to keep patients safe during strikes, but disruption is inevitable given our current challenges.”
Similar increases in flu cases have been seen in other regions—up 39% in eastern England and 40% in south-west England—with the national average of flu patients reaching 3,140 last week, up from 2,660 the previous week.
The five-day strike by resident doctors adds further strain to Kent’s hospitals, already stretched by high levels of winter illnesses.
Two Kent hospitals have imposed mask-wearing measures in specific areas to prevent the spread of flu among patients and staff.
Advice for residents
Dr Langford highlighted the importance of making thoughtful choices when seeking healthcare during this challenging time.
Life-threatening conditions: For suspected stroke, heart attack, or major accidents, call 999 or attend A&E, where emergency care continues as usual.
Non-urgent issues: Contact NHS 111 for guidance on whether pharmacy, urgent treatment centres, or other services can meet your needs.
Dr Langford also encouraged vaccination as a way to protect families and reduce hospital admissions. “If you’re eligible for a flu or Covid vaccine and haven’t received it yet, now is the time. Pregnant women and parents of eligible children should act especially quickly, as vaccines can provide additional protection at home,” she said.
Vaccines for children are administered in the form of a nasal spray rather than an injection, helping to reduce concerns about discomfort.
National context and call for action
The rise in flu cases comes during a week of strikes, as resident doctors demand better pay and more jobs. Despite a revised Government offer aimed at alleviating the job crisis, the British Medical Association (BMA) rejected the proposal in a vote, with 83% of members opting to continue industrial action.
BMA Resident Doctors Committee Chair Dr Jack Fletcher criticised the offer as “too little, too late” but assured the public that patient safety remains a priority during strikes. “NHS trusts must continue planning to prevent unsafe staffing during strikes, and we’ll remain in close contact with NHS England to respond as concerns arise,” Fletcher said.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting condemned the timing of the strikes during the NHS’s busiest period, describing them as “irresponsible and dangerous.”
NHS Kent and Medway continues to encourage the public to remain patient and informed during this demanding period. Residents are advised to visit NHS websites or contact providers for updates before attending appointments.