Hospitals across London and Surrey are bracing for the impact of this weekend’s cold snap on emergency services.
With the Met Office predicting sub-zero temperatures and snow, St George’s, Epsom and St Helier’s emergency departments (EDs) are expecting demand to soar as the temperature drops.
While icy conditions can cause more slips and falls, the impact of cold weather on the body can also increase the risk of strokes, heart attacks and respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia – particularly in vulnerable people, including older adults and those with existing health conditions.
This can put extra pressure on the NHS, which is already feeling the strain from a wave of winter viruses.
Health Chiefs are recommending people to:
Check in on people who may need extra support during cold weather such as older friends, family and neighbours;
Stay at home until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 2 days, if you have symptoms of norovirus – as this is when you’re most infectious;
Stock up on any medications or prescriptions;
Use NHS 111 online if you need urgent health advice.
Professor Arlene Wellman MBE, Group Chief Nurse for St George’s, Epsom and St Helier, said: “Our hospitals are very stretched and we are under extreme pressure.
“We expect to see higher demand during cold spells and in the days that follow, and are doing everything we can to handle this. You can help us by checking in on vulnerable people and using services best suited to your needs, such as NHS 111.”
Dr Richard Jennings, Group Chief Medical Officer for St George’s, Epsom and St Helier, said: “It’s a common misconception that you will be seen more quickly if you visit an emergency department when it’s not an emergency – but in fact, you will wait longer.
“Please stay at home if you have norovirus symptoms and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you haven’t done so already, get your flu, RSV and Covid jabs if you’re eligible.”
If you need urgent medical help, NHS 111 online – a 24/7 service that can direct people where to go for care – should be the first port of call. Pharmacies can provide advice on minor illnesses such as colds, coughs and earache.
It’s important that people continue to call 999 or go to an emergency department when it is life-threatening.
Vaccines help stop the spread of winter illnesses, as does washing hands regularly with soap and water.
