Britain's Healthcare System at Breaking Point Amid Super Flu Crisis

British hospitals are grappling with a severe surge in flu cases, seeing a 55% increase in hospitalizations in just one week. This unprecedented rise in 'super flu' cases coincides with an early, severe flu season in Europe. A potential doctors' strike looms, complicating the healthcare strain.

Hospitals in the UK are bracing for a dire scenario as an aggressive wave of super flu propels hospitalizations up by 55% in just a week, according to healthcare authorities. Individuals feeling unwell are being advised to wear face masks on public transport, with some hospitals mandating mask usage and emphasizing the importance of flu vaccinations amidst the country's viral onslaught.

NHS England reported a historic number of flu patients averaging 2,660 last week, marking unprecedented levels for this time of year. Professor Meghana Pandit, the NHS National Medical Director, highlighted the extreme hospital burden, noting that patient numbers continue to rise without a peak in sight, forecasting challenging weeks ahead for the healthcare system.

As the whole of Europe faces a similarly early and severe flu season driven by a mutated strain, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control recommends immediate vaccination for vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, a five-day strike by resident doctors planned for December 17 threatens to further strain Britain's already stretched medical services. Health minister Wes Streeting has offered new working conditions to the union to avert the strike.

(With inputs from agencies.)