NHS Leader Urges Mask-Wearing Amid 'Tidal Wave' of Flu in UK

NHS Calls for Renewed Mask Use Amid Flu Surge

Daniel Elkeles, chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts across the United Kingdom, has urged people exhibiting flu or cold symptoms to wear face coverings in public areas. The call to action, made around December 9, 2025, emphasizes the need to re-adopt infection control practices reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on public transport. Elkeles highlighted that if individuals are 'coughing and sneezing' but not unwell enough to stay home, they 'must wear a mask' to prevent transmitting the virus to others.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Chris Streather, Medical Director for NHS London, further advised Londoners to 'stay at home' and avoid public transport if they have flu-like symptoms. He also encouraged symptomatic individuals to avoid social gatherings, such as Christmas parties, to protect family, friends, and colleagues.

'Tidal Wave' of Illness and Record Hospitalisations

The urgent advice comes as the UK grapples with what Elkeles described as a 'tidal wave' of illness, driven by a 'very nasty strain of flu' that has emerged earlier than usual this year. This dominant strain has been identified as a drifted influenza A(H3N2), sometimes referred to as 'super flu.'

Data reveals a significant increase in flu-related hospitalisations across England. An average of 1,717 flu patients were in hospital beds daily, with 69 in critical care, marking a 56% increase compared to the same week in 2024. These figures are substantially higher than those recorded in 2023 (243 patients) and 2022 (772 patients). Elkeles noted that 'warm and wet' conditions, coupled with children still being in school, create 'perfect flu-spreading conditions.'

The severity of the outbreak has led to some temporary school closures across the UK, with institutions like St Martin's School in Caerphilly closing after a significant number of pupils and staff fell ill.

Official Stance and Public Health Recommendations

While the NHS leader's call is strong, Downing Street clarified that wearing a mask to prevent the spread of respiratory illness is 'something people can consider' and is not a new instruction, but rather 'longstanding guidance.'

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also affirmed that 'masks continue to be a useful tool in limiting the spread of respiratory viruses in some situations,' explaining that 'wearing a well-fitting mask when unwell can reduce the number of particles containing viruses that are released from the mouth and nose.'

Beyond mask-wearing, health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination. The UKHSA indicates that this year's flu vaccine is providing good protection despite the circulating H3N2 strain. Eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to get their flu jab to bolster protection against the severe illness.