Flu cases in England have surged to their highest level this winter, with an average of 1,312 patients in hospital daily last week, including 81 in critical care. This marks a 39% increase from the previous week and more than double the figure from a fortnight earlier, according to NHS England data. The rise comes as junior doctors are in the midst of a six-day strike, the longest in NHS history, adding to pressures on the health service.
Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive of NHS Providers, described the combination of industrial action and rising flu and Covid-19 cases as a 'perfect storm' for the NHS. He warned that staff morale is low, with over 121,000 vacancies across NHS trusts and mental health issues accounting for more than 27% of sickness absences. He urged the Government and the British Medical Association (BMA) to resolve the pay dispute to prevent further walkouts.
Covid-19 hospitalisations have also increased for the fifth consecutive week, averaging 3,929 patients daily in the week to New Year's Eve, up 8% from the previous week and 68% higher than early December. However, norovirus levels appear to have peaked. The figures were released as the NHS finalised contingency plans for the strike, which has already led to 1.2 million postponed appointments.
Professor Julian Redhead, NHS England's national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, acknowledged the service has started 2024 in a 'very difficult position' due to winter viruses, industrial action, and post-holiday demand. He urged eligible individuals to get vaccinated and to use 999 or A&E only for emergencies, while using 111 online for other conditions.
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust declared a critical incident on Friday due to sustained pressure and high emergency department attendances. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins commented that the NHS 'doesn't just belong' to the BMA's junior doctors' committee, highlighting the broader impact of the strikes on patients and staff.
