Health experts are warning of a potential “quademic” this winter as infections from new Covid strains and flu surge across the UK.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu cases rose by nearly 70 per cent in just one week, with Covid-19 infections also climbing sharply.
The increase in Covid cases is being driven by the new XFG strain, known as Stratus, along with another emerging variant, NB.1.8.1 or Nimbus. Officials fear that Covid, flu, norovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) could all rise simultaneously as temperatures drop, placing heavy pressure on hospitals and the NHS.
In its latest report, UKHSA confirmed that flu infections are “increasing,” particularly among “young adults.” Hospital data showed the number of people testing positive for influenza rose to 3.3 per cent in the week leading up to 5 October, nearly double the previous week’s 1.9 per cent. The agency also noted a rise in emergency department visits for influenza-like illnesses.
So far, 4.3 million people have received a flu jab, with 3.57 million vaccinations administered last week alone. More than one million people have also received the Covid-19 vaccine, according to NHS England.
Covid hospital admissions have risen as well, increasing from 3.41 to 4.65 per 100,000 people in one week, mostly among those aged 85 and older. ICU admissions also climbed from 0.10 to 0.14 per 100,000. The number of patients testing positive for Covid in hospital grew from 11.7 per cent to 12.9 per cent, and 78 acute respiratory incidents linked to the virus were reported during the same period.
UKHSA confirmed that the Stratus variant is currently “the most prevalent lineage” in recent Covid samples, with Nimbus also spreading steadily.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said, “The first weekly surveillance report of the 2025/26 season shows that both flu and Covid-19 positivity continue to increase, so everyone eligible for vaccination should take it up now to ensure optimal protection.” He also reminded the public that the NHS booking system is now open for all eligible groups to schedule their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.
In response to rising infection rates, several hospitals have reintroduced mask mandates. The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Trust announced that visitors and patients must wear masks in key areas to limit the spread of respiratory viruses.
Health officials are also urging the public to take basic precautions to stay safe this winter. Dr Lopez Bernal said, “Anyone experiencing flu or Covid-19 symptoms, including high temperature, cough, or fatigue, should try to minimise contact with others, particularly with those who may be vulnerable.” He advised that people who must leave home while unwell should consider wearing a face covering, keep indoor areas well ventilated, and maintain regular handwashing.
Dr Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, said, “Vaccination is a crucial part of our efforts to protect the vulnerable and prepare for what we expect to be a very challenging winter.” She added that teams across the country are making it as easy as possible to get vaccinated at GP practices, pharmacies, schools, and community clinics.
The NHS continues to urge people to check their eligibility before booking a Covid-19 vaccine. Flu vaccines are available for those aged 65 and over, under-65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals, frontline health and social care workers, children, and pregnant women.
UKHSA also reported that norovirus and RSV levels remain “low” for now but warned people to stay cautious. The agency advised anyone with diarrhoea or vomiting to stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop and to avoid preparing food or visiting hospitals and care homes during that period. It also reminded the public that “alcohol gels do not kill norovirus,” stressing the importance of washing hands with soap and warm water and cleaning surfaces with bleach-based products.
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