UK | November 6, 2025 — Health experts are sounding the alarm as the UK faces a potential surge in flu-related deaths this winter. The National Health Service (NHS) is urging the public to get vaccinated now as the number of flu cases is predicted to be higher than usual.
What’s Happening:
Experts are predicting that flu-related deaths could significantly rise this year after a shocking increase in fatalities during the 2024-2025 winter season. According to data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the flu death toll in 2024-2025 stood at 7,757 — more than double the 3,555 deaths recorded the previous winter. With flu season ramping up earlier than expected, the NHS is bracing for a particularly harsh season, following Australia’s record-breaking flu season.
Dr. Suzanna McDonald, national lead for the influenza program at the UKHSA, stated, “Flu has hit early this year and will only spread in the coming weeks.” The rising flu deaths, particularly among children, highlight the urgency to act.
The UK’s Flu Crisis:
- The 2024-2025 flu season recorded 7,757 deaths in the UK, up from 3,555 the previous year.
- Child deaths from the flu also rose, with 53 deaths recorded in 2024-2025, compared to 34 the previous year.
- Experts warn that this winter could be even worse, based on early patterns and projections.
In response, the NHS is rolling out 2.4 million additional flu vaccine appointments across England starting next week, hoping to prevent further cases. The vaccine will be available to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.
Who Should Get the Flu Jab:
- People aged 65 and over
- Under-65s in clinical risk groups
- Pregnant women
- Care home residents
- Children and social care workers
- Those in close contact with immunosuppressed people
Sir Jim Mackey, NHS chief executive, warned that winter could be one of the toughest yet, especially with the added challenges of strike actions. “Our hospitals will be at capacity from December through to March,” he added.
Public and Social Media Reactions:
With the flu season already showing early signs of escalation, public awareness has surged. Amy Clare, a mother from Sutton, shared her story of spending Christmas 2022 at Epsom Hospital with her infant son, who contracted the flu at just five weeks old. “When the doctor told us we’d be spending Christmas in the hospital, I was devastated,” Clare said. “But he was in the best place to get better.”
Many families are already taking the threat seriously, with Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, urging people to act now. “The vaccine is proven to be safe and effective in preventing serious illness and hospitalization. It’s important for those at risk to get vaccinated as soon as possible.”
What’s Next:
The NHS is taking urgent steps to contain the flu outbreak. With 2.4 million flu jab appointments being rolled out across the country, NHS England is urging people to book their vaccines as soon as possible. The flu jab can be scheduled through pharmacies, GPs, or by calling 119.
The urgency of the flu jab campaign reflects the wider challenge facing the NHS this winter, with experts urging everyone eligible to protect themselves and others by getting vaccinated.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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