The worst
of the winter pressures are over for the NHS
according to England's top doctor, after norovirus cases in
hospitals dropped for the fourth week in a row.
In the week ending 16 March, there were 899 hospital patients
with norovirus – down from the winter peak of 1,160
seen in mid-February. Cases remain around a third higher compared
to the same period last year, which recorded 680 cases.
Flu cases in hospital have plummeted to 1,174 from their January
peak of 5,408.
While the worst of this winter is over, pressure on NHS staff
remains stubbornly high.
More than nine in ten adult hospital beds are currently occupied
(94.4%).
Hospitalisations for COVID-19 have stabilised at around 1,030
patients – slightly up from 1,012 in the previous week.
Staff absences continue to pose significant challenges for NHS
teams, with around 47,097 staff off sick per day.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis,
NHS national medical director, said: “The NHS has
weathered another winter storm thanks to the dedication of
hard-working staff over the last few months.
“But pressure on NHS staff never goes away – they are currently
managing high bed occupancy, ongoing COVID hospitalisations, and
higher than normal norovirus cases.
“People should continue to use NHS services in the normal way –
using 111 and 111 online if you need advice and support for
health conditions – and only use 999 or attend A&E
in life-threatening emergencies.”
, Health and Social Care Secretary,
said: “Thanks to staff who have
worked their socks off this winter, the worst of the winter
pressures appear to be behind us.
“I am determined that we now learn the lessons from this winter
and, through our forthcoming urgent and emergency care plan, make
sure A&E waits are shorter and ambulances arrive sooner
next winter.
“Through our Plan for Change, we will make our NHS fit for the
future.”
The latest weekly winter data is available on the NHS England website.
