Hospitals across England have experienced their busiest week of the winter so far, with more than 98,000 patients occupying beds daily. Adult bed occupancy has reached a staggering 96%, highlighting the immense strain on the NHS. While flu cases have continued to decline since their peak in January, norovirus infections are rising rapidly, with nearly 1,000 hospital beds currently taken up by those suffering from the contagious vomiting bug. Meanwhile, the number of medically fit patients unable to be discharged has reached its highest level this winter, with nearly 13,800 individuals remaining in hospital.
Prof Julian Redhead, NHS England’s emergency-care director, emphasised that the combination of seasonal illnesses and delays in patient discharge is pushing hospitals close to capacity. Despite efforts to expand bed availability, pressures remain severe. He urged the public to seek NHS assistance appropriately using 111 for non-urgent medical support and reserving 999 and A&E visits for serious emergencies only.
With hospitals overwhelmed, reports have emerged of patients facing extended A&E wait times and ambulances queuing outside. NHS Providers’ Saffron Cordery acknowledged the extreme challenges faced by healthcare staff, praising their dedication to maintaining patient care despite mounting difficulties.
Amy Douglas from the UK Health Security Agency warned that norovirus levels are unusually high and advised strict hygiene measures. She reminded the public that reinfection is possible and urged those with symptoms to avoid work, school, and visiting vulnerable individuals for at least 48 hours after recovery.
