No 'super flu season' in Doncaster this winter, health bosses confirm, despite Health Secretary's warnings
Doncaster did not experience a “super-flu season” this winter, despite warnings from the Health Secretary ahead of strikes.
Government data reveals the percentage of people who tested positive for influenza among all reported tests is far lower than in 2024/25.
Rachael Leslie, the City of Doncaster Council’s director of public health, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that early preparation meant the increase in people feeling unwell was managed.
“Each winter we expect an increase in respiratory illnesses such as flu, which is why robust preparation across our health system is so vital,” she said.
There were national concerns over the impending flu season at the start of the winter, when the Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, warned against strikes by resident doctors (formerly junior doctors).
He said, in December 2025, he was “extremely worried” about a “double whammy” of flu and strikes.
Despite this concern, Doncaster managed the increased demand well.
Government data shows just over 20 per cent of flu tests came back positive – lower than in 2024/25 (around 30 per cent).
Ms Leslie said: “This year, we saw an early flu season that left many residents feeling very unwell and placed pressure on our local hospital.
“However, despite these challenges, this was not a ‘super flu’ season. Our forward planning and the resilience of our frontline teams ensured that, while the impact was felt, the situation remained managed, and our services stayed strong for the people of Doncaster.”
Doncaster Council said it has strengthened its own “winter resilience” by successfully delivering 855 flu vaccinations for staff.
The authority said that by providing vaccines to staff who fall outside of NHS eligibility, the council created a protective layer for its workforce and the residents they serve.