NHS warns the ‘worst is far from over’ as number of patients in hospital with winter illnesses rise again
The number of patients in hospital with Norovirus and Covid has increased 🏥
- Winter illnesses are continuing to put pressure on the NHS.
- The average number of patients in hospitals with the flu, Covid and norovirus is up.
- Those who are eligible but have not yet got their flu vaccine are being urged to do so.
The NHS is warning that “the worst is far from over”, after hospital admissions for winter illnesses rise sharply.
The latest figures from the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) found that the number of patients in hospital beds with flu has risen by 9% from the previous week (2,924).
Whilst the average number of patients in hospital with Norovirus and Covid was also up on the previous week, and overall bed occupancy was up by 5% at just under 92%.
NHS national medical director Professor Meghana Pandit said: “It’s clear that the worst is far from over for the NHS this winter, with hospitals again experiencing a rise in patients admitted with flu and other respiratory virus cases last week.
“The cold weather also means we are seeing more vulnerable patients with respiratory problems in A&E and more injuries from slips and falls due to the icy conditions, so it remains an extremely busy time.
“Staff continue to work incredibly hard and we are seeing teams across the country pulling out all the stops to ensure patients get the care they need. It remains important that people come forward for care as usual and there are still plenty of opportunities to get vaccinated and get protected against flu.”
Why are flu cases so high?
Cases of the flu have continued to put pressure on healthcare after the flu season arrived unusually early this winter. The cause behind this is thought to be the new flu strain, H3N2, which evolved after this winter’s flu vaccine was developed.
Hospitals have been left feeling the strain, as month after month, they have faced pressure from hospital admissions. The latest data from UKHSA shows that the number of patients in hospital beds with flu has risen by 9% the previous week.
Who is eligible for a flu vaccine?
Those eligible for a flu vaccine include adults aged 65 and over, in clinical risk groups, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, pregnant women, children, care home residents, carers, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting said: “Today’s data shows we are not out of the woods yet. While the NHS is better prepared and performing more strongly than this time last year thanks to the tireless work of staff, the current cold snap is putting fresh pressure on frontline services.
“Flu can be serious, particularly for older people, young children and those with underlying conditions, and vaccination remains the best protection. I urge everyone who is eligible to get their flu jab as soon as possible.
“By acting now, we can help keep people out of hospital, support our NHS staff through the toughest weeks of winter, and ensure emergency care is there for those who need it most.”
Winter illnesses are continuing to circulate. You can find out more information on how to look after yourself during the colder months at NHS.UK.