London’s hospitals are facing their toughest winter pressures yet as rising flu cases coincide with several days of industrial action. 

Last week (beginning 8 December), an average of 451 general and acute hospital beds across London were occupied by flu patients each day, an 18% rise on the previous week. 

Record numbers of patients in hospital mean frontline services remain under enormous pressure as the NHS enters its busiest period.  

Dr Chris Streather, Medical Director for the NHS in London, said: “Combined with the impact of strikes, a peak in flu cases comes at a challenging time for the NHS. 

“However, patients should continue to use NHS services in the usual way. Londoners should attend their appointments unless told otherwise, and should dial 999 in an emergency, or use NHS 111 for other care needs. 

“While we have vaccinated over 1.8 million people this season, there are still vulnerable people who haven’t come forward. To help keep themselves well, I urge eligible Londoners to claim their free vaccination now.” 

New figures show more than double the number of flu hospitalisations were seen last week, compared with the same week last winter (up by 104%). 

Despite this challenge, NHS teams across the capital are working tirelessly to maintain life-saving care, while keeping as much routine treatment and as many scheduled operations running as possible. 

It’s not too late to get vaccinated  

Over 1.8 million people have received their flu jab since 1 September, but more eligible people still need to get vaccinated – the best protection against serious illness. Londoners are being urged to book their vaccination appointment immediately. If you are eligible, please come forward for a jab, it’s not too late 

London’s Chief Nurse, Karen Bonner, said: “I urge all eligible Londoners to get vaccinated by booking an appointment or visiting a walk-in site as soon as possible. Vaccination is the best protection against getting potentially very ill for yourself and those around you, and it helps reduce mounting pressure on the capital’s NHS services.” 

Check patient eligibility here, and find pharmacies for walk-in vaccination appointments by using the NHS walk-in finder.