support@headlinenews360.com
Last Updated:
COVID-19, RSV and norovirus are worsening the crisis, with NHS England’s Prof Sir Stephen Powis now calling it a “quad-demic.”
Symptoms include coughing, sore throat, sneezing, fever and body aches. (Photo Credits: Freepik)
Hospitals across England are battling a “tidal wave” of illnesses, with a sharp rise in cases of “festive flu” and other winter viruses putting immense strain on the National Health Service (NHS). Data from NHS England shows an average of nearly 1,900 hospital beds were occupied by flu patients last week – a 70 per cent rise compared to the previous week and over three times higher than this time last year.
Doctors warn they are struggling to control the spread of flu, along with rising patient numbers, in hospitals. COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus are worsening the crisis, with NHS England’s Prof Sir Stephen Powis now calling it a “quad-demic.”
What is festive flu?
The term “festive flu” refers to the seasonal spike in flu cases typically seen during the winter months, worsened by holiday gatherings and colder weather. It is not a specific illness but a combination of infections like colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments, according to the American Lung Association.
Symptoms include coughing, sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, fever and body aches. Pulmonary specialist Dr. Cedric “Jamie” Rutland attributes it to factors such as sleep deprivation, dehydration, poor nutrition, and excessive shouting during social events.
NHS’ Stephen Powis called the situation concerning, describing the pressure on hospitals as a “tidal wave” of seasonal illnesses.
“The figures are adding to our ‘quad-demic’ worries,” said Powis. “While the NHS has plans in place to manage additional demand over the busy winter period, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting your vaccines. With one week left to book, it’s crucial to protect yourself against serious illness and avoid ‘festive flu.’”
England Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the NHS is delivering record treatments and reducing waiting lists. He urged people to get vaccinated to protect themselves and ease pressure on A&Es. as per the NHS.
How to prevent and treat festival flu
According to the NHS, try these tips:
- Wash hands often or use hand sanitiser.
- Stay hydrated to keep your throat and nose moist.
- Avoid smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Boost your immune system with allergy meds and Vitamin C.
- Wear a mask and maintain distance when possible, especially if you are sick.
- Eat healthy with fresh fruits and smoothies for proper nutrition.
For treatment, drink fluids, rest, and use over-the-counter meds. If symptoms last more than a week, consult a doctor/healthcare provider.
Last week, an average of 837 hospital beds in England were occupied daily by patients with diarrhoea, vomiting, or norovirus-like symptoms, up from 756 the previous week, The Guardian reported.
The number of children in hospital with RSV also increased, with an average of 152 last week, compared to 142 the week before and 107 at the same time last year.
