The NHS is facing sustained winter pressure as the country nears another cold snap, with hospitals operating at their busiest mid‑January levels since before the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Figures for the week ending 18 January show general and acute bed occupancy at 94.5% — the highest mid‑January level recorded since 2020. Much of the increased demand has been driven by a rise in norovirus, while a predicted cold spell this weekend and into next week is expected to add further strain.
On average 823 patients a day were in hospital with norovirus last week — the highest daily average this winter, a 45% increase on the previous week and more than double the average from two weeks earlier (361).
Despite these pressures, there are signs NHS staff actions are improving patient experience. Average ambulance handover times fell to 37 minutes 22 seconds last week, over five minutes quicker than the prior week (42 minutes 51 seconds). December A&E performance also improved, with 73.8% of patients admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours — the best December performance in five years.
NHS National Medical Director Professor Meghana Pandit said the rise in norovirus is putting hospitals under pressure and reminded people that norovirus peaked later last winter, so the NHS is monitoring closely ahead of the forecast cold weather. She stressed that shorter waiting times this winter reflect the hard work and early planning by NHS staff, and urged people to seek care if needed. To help prevent spread, she advised frequent handwashing with soap and water and staying away from work, school or hospital visits until 48 hours symptom‑free. People with severe or persistent symptoms should call NHS 111 or contact their GP.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting thanked NHS teams for delivering extra vaccinations and local plans to protect patients, warned that pressures remain high with the incoming cold snap, and encouraged the public to follow public health advice. He highlighted government action on winter capacity, including a £450 million investment to expand urgent and emergency care and 500 additional ambulances this winter.
Cold weather guidance and tips on keeping warm are available on NHS.uk, and people are advised to check on vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours and to use 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for health advice.
