England is facing its most challenging winter in years, with the National Health Service (NHS) overwhelmed by flu and other seasonal illnesses. As of Sunday, 95% of hospital beds were full, according to the NHS.
Four infectious diseases – flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus – are driving demand for hospital care. Flu cases have increased by over three times compared to last year, while norovirus admissions are nearly twice as high. Hospitals saw an average of 1,099 patients with flu, 1,390 with COVID-19, and 756 with norovirus each day last week.
The NHS is already under strain before winter pressures peak, with A&E departments, ambulances, and general practices reporting their busiest October on record. Staffing shortages are exacerbating the issue, with 10% more staff off sick than last year.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has pledged to create a “year-round” health service, which will be addressed in a new 10-year plan currently open for public comment. NHS Director Rory Deighton emphasized the need to improve social care, particularly for elderly and vulnerable patients.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government aims to end hospital backlogs and reduce wait times for elective procedures as part of its “Plan For Change.” However, specific goals for emergency care and hospital beds have not been announced. The prime minister assured that fixing elective care does not mean neglecting emergency services.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/katherinehignett/2024/12/05/almost-every-hospital-bed-in-england-is-full-and-winter-has-just-begun