Birmingham hospitals in crisis as winter viruses surge
University Hospitals Birmingham declares a critical incident due to a huge spike in flu and norovirus cases. Learn the latest data, public health advice, and how services are coping.
University Hospitals Birmingham declares a critical incident due to a huge spike in flu and norovirus cases. Learn the latest data, public health advice, and how services are coping.
A new flu variant, Subclade K, is spreading in the UK with distinctive high fevers. Hospital admissions surge as trusts declare critical incidents. Health officials urge vaccination.
A brutal 'super flu' is sweeping the UK, with doctors warning that vomiting yellow bile is a key symptom. The NHS fears a severe season as the strain evades the vaccine.
The NHS is sending thousands of reminders to parents as flu hospitalisations rise by 9%. Top doctors warn the 'worst is far from over' this winter. Get vaccinated now.
Bird flu has been detected in wild birds at several Birmingham parks. The public is urged not to touch birds and to keep dogs on leads. Full guidance here.
Avian influenza has been detected in wild birds at several Birmingham parks. The council urges the public not to touch sick birds and to keep pets on leads to limit the spread.
Health experts urge UK households to place bowls of water around heated homes to maintain humidity and protect against the severe H3N2 flu strain. Learn the simple steps to boost your defences.
Amber and yellow cold health alerts are in force across England as sub-zero temperatures threaten to strain NHS services. Top doctors urge the public to get vaccinated and use 111 for non-emergencies.
Hundreds of revellers were left disappointed in Birmingham city centre after a non-existent New Year's Eve fireworks display was falsely advertised online for the second consecutive year. Police had issued warnings.
Ring in 2026 with Graham Norton's star-studded BBC special featuring Tom Hiddleston, Laura Dern, Carey Mulligan and more. Tune in at 10:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
Discover 10 unique New Year's Eve superstitions and traditions from around the world to try at midnight for good luck and prosperity in 2026. From polka dots to pomegranates.
WhatsApp launches four festive features including animated stickers and video call effects to enhance your New Year's Eve 2025 messaging. Discover how to use them now.
The NHS reports flu cases are steadying but hospitals are still extremely busy. Health chiefs warn the service is 'not out of danger yet' as winter viruses circulate. Read the latest figures and advice.
From polka dots to pomegranates, discover the global New Year's Eve superstitions and midnight rituals believed to bring wealth, love, and good fortune for 2026.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will deliver his New Year's message at 10.30pm tonight. Get the latest on his speech and the political rivals also addressing the nation.
A senior NHS leader warns winter pressures remain high despite flu cases steadying. Over 3,000 were hospitalised with flu before Christmas. Public urged to get vaccinated and use services wisely.
The NHS reports flu cases are steadying but hospitals remain extremely busy, with 95% of beds full. Over half a million more flu jabs have been administered compared to last year. Health chiefs warn the service is 'not out of danger yet' as cold alerts ar
The New Wellington in Brierley Hill cancels its New Year's Eve event due to unforeseen circumstances. The pub will close at 8pm and has issued refunds. Read the full story.
Birmingham faces a cold, wet New Year's Day with highs of just 6°C and scattered showers. Get the full Met Office forecast for the West Midlands and UK snow warnings.
A psychic reveals the one sign to spot on January 1st for a prosperous year. Learn how to create your own luck for 2026 without costly resolutions.
Your complete guide to the New Year's Day TV schedule for 2025. Find out what films, shows, and specials are airing on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1, and Channel 4 to kick off 2026.
A severe, unidentified respiratory virus is causing a major surge in UK cases. Doctors report extreme fatigue and persistent coughs. Learn the key symptoms and NHS advice.
Discover six fantastic free New Year's Eve events in Birmingham for 2025. From live music to DJ sets, celebrate the start of 2026 without breaking the bank. Book your spot now!
Don't panic if you run out of food on January 1st. Many UK supermarkets are open on the bank holiday. Check our full list of opening times for Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and more.
Discover the meaning of Auld Lang Syne, the story of Robert Burns, and why we sing it every New Year's Eve. Uncover the tradition's global journey.
West Midlands Police debunk viral rumours of a Birmingham city centre fireworks show for New Year's Eve, warning families to avoid disappointment. Read their official advice.
Kieran Shingler, 26, from Warrington, tragically died from a brain tumour after mistaking symptoms for flu. Read his family's tribute and the warning signs.
Plan your post-Christmas shopping with our guide to opening hours for Bullring, Merry Hill, and other major centres from December 29 to January 2. Find key times for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
Kieran Shingler, 26, from Warrington, died after flu-like symptoms were diagnosed as a grade three astrocytoma brain tumour. Read his family's tribute.
A highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreak has been confirmed at a commercial poultry site near Alvechurch. Protection zones are in place. Read the latest.