The slight fall in flu cases is attributed in part to the NHS ramping up vaccination efforts, with half a million more people vaccinated against flu compared to the same period last year. Despite this, hospitals remain extremely busy, with around 95% of adult beds filled and 94,118 patients in hospital each day.
Other winter viruses are also circulating. On average, 707 patients were hospitalised with Covid-19, while 285 patients per day were admitted with norovirus last week. Overall, almost 18.5 million people have received flu vaccinations, marking an increase from last year.
Ambulance and NHS 111 Performance
Despite pressures from winter viruses and industrial action by resident doctors, ambulance handovers have improved, with average times down six minutes from the previous week and more than 17 minutes faster than the same period last year. NHS 111 performance also improved, with over 80% of calls answered within a minute, up from just over 70% the previous week.
Warnings from NHS Leaders
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS National Medical Director, warned:
“The NHS is not out of danger yet. While there are signs of improvement, pressures on hospitals remain incredibly high, especially with freezing temperatures expected. Please continue to only use 999 and A&E for life-threatening emergencies and NHS 111 or 111 online for other conditions. If you haven’t had your flu jab yet and are eligible, it’s not too late.”
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, added:
“This year we planned earlier than ever for winter, and that preparation is paying off. Ambulance handover times are down, more patients are receiving care, and over half a million more flu jabs have been delivered. NHS staff continue to work tirelessly under intense pressure, and their professionalism and resilience during the Christmas period have been exceptional.”
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber and yellow cold health alerts across England, warning that sub-zero temperatures could increase pressure on hospitals in the coming days.
Authorities urge the public to continue getting flu vaccinations and to follow NHS guidance to help ease pressure on hospitals during the ongoing winter period.
