Flu And COVID-19 Surveillance Report Published - 21 March 2024

This COVID-19 and flu surveillance bulletin brings together the latest surveillance data, along with the latest public health advice for COVID-19 and flu.

The flu and COVID-19 surveillance report has been published here.

COVID-19 surveillance data for week 11

COVID-19 activity remained stable.

SARS-CoV-2 positivity remained stable at 3.7% in week 11 compared to 3.7% in the previous week. This is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested at sentinel “spotter” laboratories, reported through the Respiratory DataMart surveillance system.

COVID-19 case rates and positivity in Pillar 1 decreased overall and within some age, ethnic groups, and regions in week 11.

Through the SIREN healthcare cohort study, the SARS-CoV-2 positivity increased in week 11 compared to the previous week.

COVID-19 hospitalisations increased slightly to 1.85 per 100,000 compared to 1.76 per 100,000 in the previous week.

COVID-19 ICU admissions remained low and stable at 0.06 per 100,000 in week 11.

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 acute respiratory incidents decreased compared to the previous week, with 5 incidents reported in England during week 11.

The highest hospital admission rate is currently in the North East at 3.44 per 100,000.

Those aged 85 years and over had the highest hospital admission rate, which increased to 21.45 per 100,000, with most of the remaining age groups remaining stable.

Details of the Spring 2024 COVID-19 vaccination programme will be confirmed soon by NHS England, which will be offered to those who are aged 75 years and over, residents in a care home for older adults and individuals aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed.

Flu surveillance data for week 11

Influenza activity remained stable.

Influenza positivity increased slightly to 5.9% in week 11 compared to 5.3% in the previous week. This is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested at sentinel “spotter” laboratories, reported through the Respiratory DataMart surveillance system.

Through the SIREN healthcare worker cohort study, influenza positivity increased in week 11 compared to the previous week.

The total number of confirmed influenza acute respiratory incidents increased compared to the previous week, with 19 incidents reported in England during week 11.

Overall, influenza hospitalisations influenza decreased slightly to 2.59 per 100,000 compared to 2.72 per 100,000 in the previous week and was within the low impact range.

The admission rate for influenza decreased to 0.04 per 100,000 compared to 0.08 in the previous week and was within the baseline impact range.

Emergency department (ED) attendance for the influenza-like-illness (ILI) remained stable overall.

Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Public Health Programmes at UKHSA, said:
"This week’s report shows that flu and COVID-19 have remained stable. However, we’re seeing a small increase in COVID-19 hospital admissions for those aged over 85 which shows vulnerable people are still getting seriously ill from these viruses.

"Simple steps such as using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and regular handwashing can reduce the risk of passing on flu and COVID-19. Improving fresh air circulation, such as having a window open whilst meeting indoors can also help minimise the spread.

"If you show symptoms of flu or COVID-19 like a high temperature, a cough, or feeling tired and achy, it’s important to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you need to go out while you aren’t feeling well, consider wearing a mask around other people".