The NHS is facing continuing winter pressures as the country
approaches another cold snap, and as rising pressures are pushing
hospitals to their busiest levels for this time of year since
before Covid.
Figures released today show more general and acute hospital beds
were occupied in the week ending 18th Jan (94.5%) than
at any point during the middle of January since 2020 (95%).
The busy week has been driven by a rise in a ‘vomiting virus', as
the NHS also prepares for a predicted cold snap this weekend and
into next week, which is set to add further pressure on the
health service.
There were an average of 823 patients in hospital with norovirus
each day last week - the highest number so far this winter – and
up 45% on the previous week and more than double what it was a
fortnight ago (361).
Despite the increase in demand from norovirus, there are signs
the hard work of NHS staff is having an impact for patients this
winter.
Average ambulance handover times last week (37:22) were more than
five minutes faster than the previous week (42:51).
A&E data published last week also showed 73.8% of patients
were admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours in
December - the best it's been for five years.
NHS National Medical Director Professor Meghana Pandit
said:
“A rise in this vomiting virus is leaving hospitals under
pressure. Norovirus cases didn't peak until February last winter,
so we're monitoring closely for further increases ahead of
another predicted cold snap this weekend.
“But despite these pressures, we are clearly seeing shorter
waiting times for patients than previous winters. This is a
testament to the incredible hard work of NHS staff and the early
and detailed preparation and planning they did ahead of winter
this year.
“Although hospitals are incredibly busy, people should come
forward for care as normal if they need it. You can also help
prevent the spread of norovirus by frequent handwashing with soap
and water and you shouldn't return to work, school or visit
hospitals until you are 48 hours symptom-free. If your symptoms
are severe, persist beyond a few days or if you're concerned,
call NHS 111 or your GP for advice.”
Health and Social Care Secretary said:
“Across the country, NHS teams have gone above and beyond –
delivering hundreds of thousands more vaccinations and putting
local plans in place to protect patients during the most
challenging months of the year.
“Pressures remain high and we know another cold snap is on the
way. I urge people to remain vigilant, follow the latest public
health advice to keep you and your loved ones safe.
“Thanks to this government acting early – investing £450 million
to expand urgent and emergency care and putting 500 new
ambulances on the road this winter – patients can be confident
that help will be there when it matters most.”
Cold weather advice is available from the NHS.uk website including how
to keep warm and how to get help with heating. People are also
encouraged to look in on vulnerable relatives friends and
neighbours and go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111
for advice or if they feel unwell themselves.
