RCGP response to NHS England announcement of ‘super flu’ surge

Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, has today responded to NHS England’s warnings of a ‘super flu’ surge, which mirrors what we are seeing on the frontline of general practice.

Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said:
"NHS England’s warnings of a ‘super flu’ surge and the impact it is having on the health service is deeply concerning and is mirrored in what we are seeing on the frontline of general practice. GPs across the country are already seeing the kind of winter pressures we’d normally expect much later in the season. Data from the RCGP’s Research and Surveillance Centre shows that flu rates are now above the seasonal average across all regions and age groups in England, with infants and children under five particularly affected, presenting with high fevers, coughs, and other viral symptoms.

"Winter always brings extra pressure across the NHS – and as the first point of contact for most patients, GPs are managing high numbers of appointments for acute illnesses while also keeping a close eye on those who may develop complications, including older adults, people with long-term conditions, pregnant women and very young children.

"As flu levels rise, taking steps to limit the spread of infection can help protect communities and reduce pressure on already stretched services. We encourage patients to follow simple measures—such as staying at home when sick, practising good hand hygiene, improving indoor ventilation, and getting the flu vaccine —can help slow the spread of infections. Vaccination doesn’t just reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell; it also helps slow the spread within families, schools and communities, which in turn helps relieve pressure across the whole NHS.

"Many winter viruses can be safely and effectively managed at home with rest, keeping hydrated and using over-the-counter medication to ease symptoms.

"This is shaping up to be a challenging winter and GP teams are working hard to care for patients and to help keep people well – it’s important that general practice is supported through the winter months with appropriate resources, so we can continue delivering safe and timely care for the communities we serve."

Further information

RCGP press office: 0203 188 7659
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 54,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.