NHS services across Somerset are under immense pressure as a surge in flu cases sweeps through the county, mirroring the national picture of a 70% rise in hospitalisations in just one week.

Across England, an average of 1,861 patients with flu were admitted to hospital every day last week, up from 1,099 the previous week. Flu hospitalisations are now 3.5 times higher than this time last year, prompting NHS leaders in Somerset to urge eligible residents to get their flu vaccines if they haven't already.

A challenging winter for Somerset

Local hospitals, including Musgrove Park in Taunton and Yeovil District Hospital, are facing significant strain as cases of flu, norovirus, and RSV rise. Norovirus cases are up 10% nationally compared to last week and 64% higher than last year. RSV is also hitting children hard, with 152 young patients hospitalised daily across the UK, up from 107 the same time last year.

This surge in seasonal illnesses comes alongside record demand for A&E services. November saw 2.31 million attendances at emergency departments across England, 7% higher than last year, making it the busiest November on record for A&E staff.

NHS urging Somerset residents to help

Dr Melanie Iles, Chief Medical Officer at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Everyone can do their bit to help the NHS when it's under pressure. It's vital that those who need medical help come forward as they usually would – using 999 and A&E in life-threatening emergencies. For everything else, please consider using 111 online alongside your GP practices and pharmacies."

NHS Somerset's Chief Medical Officer, Bernie Marden, emphasised the importance of vaccinations: "With one week left to book your vaccine, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting booked in to protect yourself against serious illness and to avoid 'festive flu.'"

National concerns over a 'quad-demic'

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director, has warned of the strain on the system caused by a "quad-demic" of flu, Covid-19, RSV, and norovirus. "The tidal wave of flu cases and other seasonal viruses hitting hospitals is really concerning for patients and for the NHS," he said.

The NHS has delivered almost 28 million vaccines so far this winter, but officials stress that vaccination remains one of the best defences against severe illness.

Protect yourself and the NHS

Residents in Somerset are encouraged to:

• Get their flu, Covid-19, and RSV vaccinations if eligible.
• Use 111 online, GP practices, and pharmacies for non-urgent medical needs.
• Only use 999 or A&E for life-threatening emergencies.

For information on vaccinations in Somerset, visit: nhssomerset.nhs.uk/my-health/vaccinations

By taking these steps, residents can help ease the burden on local NHS services during this challenging winter period.