The NHS is “bracing” for a challenging winter, with particular concerns raised over a predicted rise in demand due to flu. Saffron Cordery, interim chief executive of NHS Providers, told BBC Breakfast: “Quad-demic – it’s an awful word, but it does mean that we’ve got four different viruses running around at the moment – we’ve got flu, we’ve got Covid, we’ve got norovirus and RSV, and all of those coming together makes it incredibly challenging.
“I think there are two things that it does: One is it really increases demand for services, particularly I would say GP services, but also A&E services. And, of course, those staff who are working in our hospitals are also those who are living in our communities who are affected by the same viruses, or their children are affected by those viruses, so it does, of course, reduce the number of staff who are available to work.
“Those two things coming together is what puts enormous pressure on services on the front line in winter.”
She added: “We’ve seen a real rise in, a spike in, the number of children who are suffering from flu in particular, and often that’s a predictor of a later wave coming in adults. So, it’s likely that we might see rising demand in adults further down the line.
“So, yes, we are bracing ourselves, I think, for a challenging winter ahead.”
The symptoms of the flu in children can vary depending on the child’s age and overall health, but they often develop quickly. Common symptoms include:
General Symptoms
- Fever : Often high, typically above 37.8°C.
- Chills : Feeling cold or shivering.
- Fatigue : Extreme tiredness or lethargy.
- Muscle or body aches : Pain in muscles or joints.
Respiratory Symptoms
- Cough : Dry or persistent.
- Runny or stuffy nose : Often accompanied by congestion.
- Sore throat : Can make swallowing uncomfortable.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms (more common in children than adults)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach pain
Other Symptoms
- Headache : A common early sign.
- Irritability : Young children may become unusually fussy or clingy.
- Reduced appetite : Eating less or refusing food.
Warning Signs to Seek Medical Attention
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.
- Bluish lips or face.
- Severe or persistent pain in the chest or abdomen.
- Dehydration (e.g., fewer wet nappies, dry mouth, no tears when crying).
- High fever that doesn’t improve or lasts more than a few days.
- Seizures or confusion.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
You or your child have symptoms of flu and:
- you’re worried about your baby’s or child’s symptoms
- you’re 65 or over
- you’re pregnant
- you have a long-term medical condition – for example, diabetes or a condition that affects your heart, lungs, kidneys, brain or nerves
- you have a weakened immune system – for example, because of chemotherapy or HIV
- your symptoms do not improve after 7 days
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.