The NHS has issued a major warning to football fans ahead of the World Cup, urging them not to delay seeking emergency treatment during matches. Analysis of emergency department data revealed nearly 17,000 fewer attendances than expected during England's Euro 2024 games, followed by a surge in injuries after the final whistle.
Drop in A&E Visits During Matches
England's group-stage opener against Serbia saw the biggest decline, with 8.8% fewer patients visiting A&E compared to the six-week average. The quarter-final against Switzerland (5.9%) and the final against Spain (5.7%) also recorded significant drops. The largest decrease occurred in the hour before kick-off, with an 11% fall in attendances.
Post-Match Injury Spike
These lulls were followed by a spike in demand, with hundreds more patients seeking help in the eight hours after each game. The surge was partly driven by a roughly 10% increase in trauma and musculoskeletal attendances, consistent with falls, assaults, and other injuries.
Emma Rowland, NHS England's national clinical lead for urgent and emergency care, said: "We know that the World Cup is a highlight in any football fan's calendar, but even the most die-hard supporter needs to ensure they put their health first and seek emergency treatment when they need it."
NHS Ready Throughout Tournament
Rowland added: "The NHS will be available as it always is throughout the next 32 days of football action — including through extra time, penalties and beyond. So if you need care, please don't hold off coming forward."
Attendances fell more sharply when England played on weekends than in midweek fixtures. The 17,000 fewer attendances recorded during Euro 2024 is equivalent to around a quarter of the capacity of the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, where England kicks off its World Cup campaign on Wednesday.
Advice for Fans
Rowland urged fans: "Use NHS services as you would normally, dial 999 in an emergency and otherwise use 111 or 111 online for your healthcare needs. Please enjoy the tournament — but not in a way that turns a great night watching England into an unnecessary trip to A&E."
