Critical incident declared at Hampshire hospitals
Bosses say they're unable to admit further patients at the Royal Hampshire and Basingstoke Hospital
Last updated 8th Jan 2025
A critical incident has been declared at two Hampshire hospitals due to sustained pressures linked to a rise in winter viruses such as flu.
Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said large numbers are being admitted to the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester and Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, while few are being discharged.
There is also a large number of infection patients requiring isolation.
Beds across both hospitals are said to be full with attendance at emergency departments 'extremely high'.
With no beds available to admit further patients in need of care, those going to A&E for non life-threatening conditions are being told they face extremely long waits for care.
People are being told to only attend the emergency department in the event of a life-threatening illness or injury.
Those in need of medical assistance are asked to seek advice from NHS 111, their GP, pharmacies, or urgent treatment centres.
As part of the critical incident response, bosses are seeking support from across the health system to discharge patients who no longer require acute care and limit the number that need to come to the acute hospital.
Julie Dawes, chief nurse for Hampshire Hospitals, says:
"This year has seen an unusually high level of winter viruses with a significant number of patients presenting with respiratory issues.
"There are two ways the public can help at this time; firstly, by only attending our Emergency Departments if acutely unwell or injured; and secondly by collecting loved ones who are ready for discharge.
"Our ward teams can help with medication or equipment so if you can, please have the conversation and collect loved ones; this will free up capacity for someone who in need of hospital treatment and care.
"Anyone suffering from a winter virus is advised to stay at home and rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to assist with managing symptoms."
Those currently scheduled for elective procedures and appointments at both sites are being told to attend them as planned unless contacted by their hospital.