Despite it being spring, when winter viruses like the flu, norovirus, and COVID-19 usually decline, the number of infections remains unusually high. This is not what health officials typically expect for this time of year, especially with warmer weather usually reducing the spread of such viruses.
The word “unseasonably” highlights that these levels are out of sync with the usual seasonal trend.
Despite a stretch of warmer, sunnier weather, hospitals in England are still grappling with unusually high numbers of patients suffering from winter viruses, according to newly released NHS data.
Norovirus, flu, and COVID-19 continue to place significant strain on NHS resources, with infection levels remaining elevated well into spring. COVID-19 admissions, in particular, have reached their highest point so far in 2025, underlining the ongoing burden facing healthcare services.
An average of 839 hospital beds were occupied each day last week by patients exhibiting norovirus symptoms. Although slightly down from 903 the previous week, the figure remains well above levels seen during the same period in previous years — 533 in 2024 and 374 in 2023.
Similarly, flu-related admissions averaged 979 beds per day, a modest decrease from 1,044 the week prior, but still significantly higher than last spring’s 837 and 274 in 2023.
These figures were included in the final weekly NHS snapshot for the 2024/25 season, though monthly updates on waiting times, A&E performance and cancer referrals will continue. Weekly reporting is set to resume in late autumn.
Concerns Over Care Delays and Pressures on Staff
England’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, acknowledged the severe challenges faced over the winter: “This winter has been one of the toughest ever for staff, and despite their heroic efforts, far too many patients waited too long for care.
While many of the initiatives rolled out this winter such as more virtual wards and same-day emergency care services, delivered improvements in getting patients the care they deserve – with fewer ambulance handover delays this winter – it’s clear we need to accelerate our progress.
Despite the sunnier weather, Covid cases have jumped the highest level this year, in a sign winter is not over yet for our staff. It is vital that the public continue to use 999 and A&E in life-threatening emergencies and use NHS 111 – and 111 online – if you need advice and support for other conditions.”
COVID-19 and Vaccination Rollout
COVID-19 patient numbers climbed again last week, with an average of 1,174 hospital beds occupied by those testing positive — up from 1,050 the previous week and the highest since December.
To help mitigate the impact, England’s spring COVID-19 vaccination programme is now underway. Approximately 7.5 million people are eligible, including:
- Adults aged 75 and over
- Care home residents
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
Vaccinations will be available from April through June.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting offered his thanks to NHS staff and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to reform: “I want to thank all NHS staff for their professionalism, resolve, and dedication in keeping our health service functioning throughout another challenging winter.
Annual winter pressures, which will always exist, should not automatically lead to an annual winter crisis. We are already working to learn the lessons of this winter ahead to improve urgent and emergency care. Through the Government’s Plan for Change, we will get the NHS back on its feet and make it fit for the future.”
