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GP warns not to mistake symptoms of 'serious' illnesses as flu amid rise in cases
GPs warn that serious illnesses like meningitis and pneumonia mimic flu symptoms and urge urgent care amid the UK's early surge in flu cases, described as a 'tidal wave.'
- On December 8, 2025, LloydsPharmacy GP Dr Bhavini Shah warned the United Kingdom not to dismiss symptoms amid a 'tidal wave' of flu, coinciding with NHS reports of record early-season cases.
- The NHS has warned the early-season spike is 'unprecedented' as flu cases rose earlier than usual, forcing schools across the UK to close and resident doctors in England plan strikes in the coming weeks.
- LloydsPharmacy GP Dr Bhavini Shah highlighted that meningitis, malaria and pneumonia can mimic flu but need urgent care for red-flag symptoms like a non-blanching rash or confusion.
- Hospitals face the highest recorded pressure for this time of year and the NHS says there is no peak yet; the NHS urged eligible people to get the flu jab and use NHS 111 for non-life-threatening issues, reserving 999 for emergencies.
- Amid rising cases, the NHS said planned industrial action and ballooning cases may stretch staff close to breaking point in the coming weeks, while NHS Providers chief executive Daniel Elkeles urged mask use for people with symptoms.
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Dorset Echo+32 Reposted by 32 other sources
GP warns not to mistake symptoms of 'serious' illnesses as flu amid rise in cases
A GP has warned Brits not to dismiss symptoms of more 'serious' illnesses as cold or flu as cases rise
·Weymouth, United Kingdom
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources35
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center31Last UpdatedBias Distribution94% Center
Bias Distribution
- 94% of the sources are Center
94% Center
C 94%
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