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NHS Faces Winter Virus Surge After Holidays
8 Jan
Summary
- Flu hospitalizations rose 9% last week to 2,924 beds.
- Cold weather contributes to injuries and respiratory issues.
- Corridor care is becoming normalized due to bed shortages.
Following the Christmas and New Year holidays, NHS leaders are observing a resurgence of flu and other winter viruses. Hospital bed occupancy for flu patients in England has increased by 9% in the past week, reaching 2,924. This rise follows a brief period of declining numbers, previously suggesting a potential peak.
The severe cold weather is compounding the pressure on frontline services. Hospitals are reporting a significant increase in patients seeking treatment for injuries sustained from slips and falls, alongside a worsening of respiratory conditions. NHS medical director Prof Meghana Pandit cautioned that the winter challenges are far from over.
Despite these pressures, there are indications that the NHS is managing better this winter compared to the last. Ambulance handover delays at A&E were lower during the Christmas period than the previous year. However, concerns persist about the sustainability of current pressures and the normalization of 'risky corridor care' due to bed shortages.
