With NHS services under significant pressure in the first full week of 2025, the region’s Medical Director is reminding people who need assistance to use healthcare options wisely.

NHS North East and Yorkshire Medical Director Dr Hamish McLure says the impact of cold weather on people’s existing health conditions, along with an increase in respiratory illnesses, has led to greater pressure on NHS frontline services, locally and nationally.

“On top of admissions for flu, which were running at the rate of 5,000 cases a day nationally at the end of last month, hospitals are seeing continual pressure from Covid, RSV and norovirus cases, as a ‘quad-demic’ continues to increase pressure across services,” Dr McLure (pictured) said.

Across the region, there was an average of 1,236 patients a day in hospital with flu last week (w/e 5 January 2025), including 50 patients in critical care – this was quadruple the amount of the same week last year (301 w/e 7 January 2024).

Thanks to the dedication of NHS staff in the North East and Yorkshire, almost 3 million flu vaccines have been delivered this winter, alongside ongoing efforts to protect against COVID-19 and RSV, and while the national vaccination booking system has now closed, those eligible can still get protected by visiting a COVID-19 walk-in vaccination site or finding a pharmacy offering the flu vaccine.

Dr McLure emphasised that anyone who needs medical support should continue to use NHS services.

“The NHS website, NHS 111 phoneline and 111 online are available if you need advice and support for health conditions,” he said. “Community services like GPs and pharmacies are open as usual for help and advice, while you can use 999 or attend A&E in life-threatening emergencies.”

Patients with life-threatening or critical illness or injury are prioritised for treatment and this means some people who attend emergency departments with clinically less urgent conditions may face longer waits, Dr McLure explained.

“Low temperatures can be dangerous for people who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions, so if you are at risk, do try to keep warm and make sure you are stocked up on any regular medication.”

Dr McLure also thanked NHS staff and partners at healthcare settings including hospitals, GP practices and community pharmacies who are working tirelessly to keep patients safe and provide the best possible care.

With weather conditions expected to remain wintry for the next few days, Dr McLure urged members of the public to look out for others, and keep in touch with friends, family and neighbours.