England is facing an unprecedented rise in flu, with the number of flu patients in hospital reaching a record high for this time of year. In the last week of November, there were an average of 1,717 patients with influenza in hospitals, which represents 2% of the total number of hospital beds in the country. This number is 50% higher than the same period last year and ten times higher than in 2023. The NHS warns that up to 8,000 beds could be filled with flu patients by the end of next week. According to the national emergency medical director, Julian Redhead, there is no peak in sight. The situation is serious and the health sector is preparing for the continued high burden caused by the flu. This increase represents significant pressure on hospital capacity in England[1].