Health bosses have said they will be monitoring the rise in flu cases closely
17:13, 23 Oct 2025Updated 18:19, 23 Oct 2025
Cold and flu season is upon us(Image: Getty Images)
Health officials are urging anyone with symptoms of winter viruses to “consider wearing a face covering” as flu cases rise across England.
New figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that flu activity has increased and is now circulating above normal levels in some areas.
Data indicates that flu levels are rising earlier than expected in the season, with children and young adults being hit the hardest.
The UKHSA is advising everyone over 65, pregnant, or in a high risk group to book their flu vaccine appointment.
Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “This week’s data is showing a rise in positive tests for flu, particularly in children and younger adults, as well as an increase in GP and A&E attendances.
“It is relatively early in the autumn to be seeing these increases and we will be monitoring this closely in the coming weeks.
“It’s absolutely crucial that everyone eligible for a flu vaccine books their appointment – it could make all the difference in avoiding severe illness and hospitalisation.”
Health experts have urged all those eligible for the flu vaccine this winter to get the jab(Image: PA)
UKHSA data shows there has been a rise in emergency department visits for flu-like symptoms, and hospital admissions for flu are also creeping up, rising from 1.29 to 1.73 per 100,000 people in the past week.
Other winter viruses are also on the rise. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases have increased slightly, circulating at baseline levels, while levels of Covid are slightly decreasing, circulating at medium levels, the UKHSA said.
Dr Watson added: “It’s also important to remember the simple steps that we can all take to protect against respiratory illnesses. Anyone experiencing flu or COVID-19 symptoms, including high temperature, cough and feeling tired or achy, should try to minimise contact with others, particularly with those who may be vulnerable.
“If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of these illnesses, as can ensuring that indoor areas are well ventilated.”
Anyone with cold, flu or Covid symptoms is urged to stay at home(Image: Getty Images)
The UKHSA shared a checklist to help stop infections from spreading on X on Tuesday (October 21). It said:
- Stay at home if you feel unwell
- Wash your hands regularly
- Catch coughs and colds in a tissue
- Open a window when meeting others indoors
- Consider wearing a mask if you need to go out
While flu jab uptake is higher than last year, experts are urging those eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Health Minister Karin Smyth said: “Vaccines save lives and are a vital way to protect children when they need it most – especially as we head into a winter that will see the NHS under strain from flu.
“It is easier than ever to book your flu vaccination with appointments available at GP surgeries, pharmacies and community centres across the country.
“This government is working hard to brace our health service ahead of winter, and so I urge parents who are yet to vaccinate their children to come forward to protect them and our NHS.”