Winter flu outbreak is peaking, say health experts
The winter flu outbreak appears to be peaking, health officials say.
Officials are hopeful the worst of the season may soon be over after a fall in the numbers being admitted to hospital.
While the numbers still remain "very high" - around 4,000 in England last week - the rate of hospitalisation was lower then the week before.
Perspectives from Lewisham
"The system is beyond its limits in places; we’re overcrowded and have struggled to cope with demand." —Phillippa Hentsch, Senior Registrar, University Hospital Lewisham.
"They advise to get flu vaccine, I went to my local chemist in Hither Green and they say they have an issue getting hold of the vaccine? Is this a national problem?" —mark, SE13
"Elderly and babies or very young children asides. Why do people (idiots) go to the doctors or a&e with the flu or other minor issues. It is these blithering idiots who put a strain on our NHS. As well as mass immigration. As well as thousands of nurses leaving because of the government." —VUF, SE13
The numbers coming to see their GP have fallen in Scotland and Northern Ireland, although small rises have been seen in England and Wales.
Public Health England's Richard Pebody said the fact flu rates had stabilised was a good sign and suggested "flu activity is starting to peak".
NHS officials also welcomed the news, but warned the health service was still in the middle of a very difficult winter.
What should I do?
Local advice from social media:
Think you've come down with the flu? You can often treat it without seeing your GP and should begin to feel better in about a week. Read advice on our page: http://ow.ly/diKi30hB912 @NHSChoices
Being cold stresses a child’s immune system… It’s better to take off layers as needed, rather than putting her in one big coat that can cause her to overheat. #colds @LloydsLewisham
Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard, of the Royal College of GPs, said: "There are still huge numbers of patients being seen in general practice with flu and other common winter conditions - and GPs and our teams are certainly feeling the pressure."
And Phillippa Hentsch of NHS Providers, which represents hospital bosses, said the system was working "beyond its limits" in some places, with hospitals overcrowded and "struggling to cope with demand".
The weekly reports released on Thursday also showed high rates of the vomiting bug norovirus.
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Have you been affected by NHS issues in south-east London? Contact our local correspondent, Brendan Schwartz