London Medical Director thanks Londoners for getting their flu vaccine but says hospitals are still under pressure
The NHS in London reveals flu hospital admissions are down 24% on this time last year, while two million people have stepped up for their jab to protect both themselves and hospital pressures this winter.
New NHS data shows an average of 387 beds across London have been occupied by flu patients each day since Christmas*, a 14% reduction since earlier in December (451, compared to the average for the week w/c 8th December). Meanwhile, A&E departments are still facing their busiest season.
Dr. Chris Streather, Chief Medical Director for the NHS in London, said: “I want to thank Londoners who came forward for their flu jab in the run-up to Christmas. Their actions are making a real difference – we’ve seen a 14% reduction in flu patients occupying hospital beds compared with earlier in December.
“However, now is not the time to be complacent. London hospitals are currently caring for an average of 387 patients a day, and winter pressures remain high.
“It is vital that Londoners help us to help them, by coming forward for care when needed, and by getting their vaccination to protect themselves against flu.”
Over two million people in London have received their flu jab since 1 September 2025, and it is not too late for remaining eligible Londoners to get vaccinated.
Dr Streather continued: “I urge all eligible Londoners who haven’t yet been vaccinated to book an appointment or visit 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 the strain on the capital’s NHS services.”
Winter weather has also given rise to the number of 999 calls across the capital, putting even more pressure on emergency services and A&E.
London Ambulance Service is seeing a significant increase in ambulance call-outs relating to trips, falls and winter illnesses including breathing difficulties that can be exacerbated by the cold weather.
Peter Rhodes, Deputy Director of Ambulance Operations and Gold Commander at London Ambulance Service, advises: “With cold temperatures and wet weather, we’re seeing an increase in 999 calls relating to trips and falls and other health conditions – such as cardiac and respiratory illnesses – that can be made worse by the cold weather.
“Please stay safe by ensuring you wrap up warm and wear suitable clothing and footwear if you’re going outside – especially if it’s icy. Wearing two or three lighter layers can keep you warmer than one woolly or thick jumper.
“Please also look out for family, friends and neighbours who may be at risk and vulnerable in colder weather. If you know someone is on their own – please do reach out to them.
“Remember to use our services wisely and contact your GP, pharmacy or NHS 111 if you need urgent medical advice fast or unsure what to do. If you suffer with an underlying medical condition please ensure you have enough of your regular medications. ”
For non-life-threatening care, Londoners can call NHS 111, visit 111 online or use the NHS App. Local pharmacists and GPs across the capital are also there to help.
The free NHS flu vaccine is available for everyone aged 65 and over, under 65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff, as well as children and pregnant women.
Find pharmacies for walk-in vaccination appointments by using the NHS walk-in finder, and check patient eligibility here.
Notes to editors
*25th December 2025 – 4th January 2026
Figures from: