NHS Providers Chief Calls for Public Mask Use
Daniel Elkeles, chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts across the United Kingdom, has urged people experiencing flu or cold symptoms to wear face masks in public spaces. The call comes as the UK grapples with what Elkeles described as a 'tidal wave' of illness, driven by a particularly virulent strain of influenza. His remarks were made on December 9, 2025, highlighting the need for a return to infection control habits established during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Escalating Flu Crisis and Record Hospitalisations
The UK is currently experiencing an earlier and more severe flu season than anticipated, with a 'very nasty strain of flu' identified as a drifted influenza A(H3N2), sometimes referred to as 'super flu'. This strain is associated with more severe illness. The number of people hospitalised with flu in England has reached a record level for this time of year, significantly higher than in previous seasons. Factors contributing to the rapid spread include warm and wet weather conditions and children remaining in school, creating 'perfect flu-spreading conditions,' according to Elkeles.
Renewed Emphasis on Infection Control
Elkeles specifically advised that individuals who are 'coughing and sneezing' but not unwell enough to stay home 'must wear a mask when you're in public spaces, including on public transport,' to prevent transmitting the virus to others. This recommendation echoes previous guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which stated last week that 'masks continue to be a useful tool in limiting the spread of respiratory viruses in some situations.'
Government Response and Public Reaction
In response to Elkeles's comments, Downing Street clarified that wearing a mask to prevent the spread of respiratory illness is 'something people can consider.' A No 10 spokesperson stated that there is 'longstanding guidance in place' for measures to limit winter bugs and that this is 'neither new nor an instruction.' The government emphasized that the 'best defence against flu is the vaccine,' noting that almost 17 million flu jabs have already been delivered this winter. However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch expressed reservations, stating she was 'still slightly traumatised by all the mask-wearing that we had to do during Covid' and advocated for common sense over mandates. Meanwhile, Dr. Andy Whittamore, clinical lead at Asthma and Lung UK, advised individuals with lung conditions to 'consider wearing a face mask in crowded or indoor spaces' to reduce their risk of infection.
Outlook for the 2024-2025 Flu Season
The current flu season, which saw a notable rise in cases from November 2024, was predicted to be severe, drawing comparisons to Australia's earlier intense season. While the peak flu activity occurred in January 2025, the severity and transmissibility aligned with expectations. Health officials continue to stress the importance of vaccination for eligible individuals as a primary defence against the virus.
6 Comments
Coccinella
I understand the concern for the NHS and the vulnerable, and wearing a mask when symptomatic makes sense. But for healthy individuals, it feels like a step backward and the focus should remain on vaccination and improving general immunity.
Stan Marsh
Enough with the nanny state! People can make their own health decisions.
Kyle Broflovski
It's a small inconvenience for a huge public health benefit. No brainer.
Eric Cartman
More control creep. Masks didn't stop Covid, they won't stop flu.
Michelangelo
It's true that masks can offer some protection, especially for those with health conditions. However, the government's mixed message makes it hard for people to take it seriously, and vaccine uptake is still the priority.
Raphael
This is just fear-mongering. Focus on vaccines, not pointless theatre.