Story perspectives

London's 'Superflu' Crisis: Hospitalizations Soar Amid Strikes

12/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

London faces an unprecedented flu wave driven by A(H3N2) subclade K, nicknamed "superflu," with hospital admissions tripling and an average of 1,717 daily.
The NHS warns there may be no peak yet, as resident doctors plan strikes that could worsen the crisis.
Officials urge mask-wearing and vaccination to curb transmission during the holiday season.
Schools close or move to remote learning as cases surge, straining families and the healthcare system.

History

Historical Context

The 1918 influenza pandemic, caused by the H1N1 virus, infected about one-third of the global population and resulted in an estimated 50 million deaths. The pandemic's spread was exacerbated by World War I troop movements. Today, as the NHS faces the A(H3N2) "superflu," officials emphasize vaccination and masks, reflecting ongoing challenges in public health preparedness stemming from historical crises.

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Story summary

London faces an unprecedented flu wave driven by A(H3N2) subclade K, nicknamed "superflu," with hospital admissions tripling and an average of 1,717 daily.
The NHS warns there may be no peak yet, as resident doctors plan strikes that could worsen the crisis.
Officials urge mask-wearing and vaccination to curb transmission during the holiday season.
Schools close or move to remote learning as cases surge, straining families and the healthcare system.

1 / 2