Syndromic surveillance summary: 18 October 2026 week 42
Updated 29 October 2026
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Reporting week 42: 12 to 18 October 2026
Activity across most acute respiratory infection indicators stabilised during week 42. There were further small increases observed in influenza-like illness indicators in GP in-hours and ED systems, where activity remained above that expected for the time of year. COVID-19-like ED attendances and GP in-hours consultations continued to increase, but only in adults aged 65 years and over.
Remote health advice syndromic surveillance system
During week 42, NHS 111 triaged calls and online assessments for eye problems increased and were above seasonally expected levels. The increases were particularly noted in the 15 to 44 years age group. There were further small increases in calls and online assessments for acute respiratory infections.
Access the remote health advice syndromic surveillance bulletins
GP in-hours syndromic surveillance system
During week 42, COVID-19-like consultations continued to increase, mainly in adults aged 65 years and over. Upper respiratory tract infections remained stable overall however there was a further small increase in influenza-like illness (ILI), which remained above seasonal expectations. ILI rates increased in adult age groups over years 45 years.
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GP out-of-hours syndromic surveillance system
During week 42, GP out-of-hours daily contacts for acute respiratory infections remained stable and in line with seasonally expected levels. There was a small decrease in influenza-like illness contacts, but activity remained above seasonally expected levels. Contacts for acute bronchitis/bronchiolitis remained stable and below expected levels.
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Emergency department (ED) syndromic surveillance system
During week 42, COVID-19-like attendances continued to increase overall, but only in adults aged 65 years and over. There were further small increases in acute respiratory infections, influenza-like illness and acute bronchiolitis. Attendances for gastroenteritis also increased during week 42 but activity was in line with seasonally expected levels.
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Ambulance syndromic surveillance system
During week 42, daily ambulance calls for difficulty breathing remained stable and at levels expected for the time of year.