An added concern is a warning from disease experts that the flu vaccine offers less protection for one of the strains circulating this winter.
So what should we know to stay safe and well during the festive season?
Flu surge
Cases of flu rose to nearly 1,000 last week – up from 529 the previous week. A total of 264 people were in hospital with the virus, including two in intensive care. One person died, bringing the toll from flu this winter to six. The highest rate is among the over-80s. Christmas socialising and travel will add to the spread, while children can pass it on to older relatives.
The peak will coincide with the traditional rush of patients who try to hold out until after Christmas or the new year to attend hospital emergency departments. So there is the potential for the spread of infection and…