"The number of 999 calls in London has risen over the past week, with London Ambulance Service (LAS) reporting its three busiest days of 2025 in a row. The service said the 20% increase included more calls from people with breathing difficulties due to viral infections and respiratory illnesses such as the flu. NHS figures indicate fewer than half of eligible people in London have had the free flu vaccine this season."
"LAS strategic commander Laurence Cowderoy said the service had prepared for winter for many months, but still urged Londoners to "only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency". He said the high call rate was "more typically seen on New Year's Eve". Operations to cope with demands over the winter period include: 460 ambulances out on the road during peak demand Use of AI More phone appointments A redirect system where patients are moved to ease pressure"
"Karen Bonner, the regional chief nurse for London, said NHS staff had already seen the impact of the new flu strain with people coming into accident and emergency departments with symptoms. "We know it's a pretty bad flu this year we know that from seeing it in Australia and other places - so, we really want to protect people," she said."
999 call volumes across London have risen sharply over the past week, with the London Ambulance Service recording its three busiest consecutive days of 2025 and a roughly 20% increase. Many additional calls relate to breathing difficulties from viral infections and respiratory illnesses including flu. NHS England reports about 1.7 million free flu vaccinations taken up in London so far, around 46% of those eligible. Experts predict the worst flu season for a decade driven by a new flu strain. Ambulance operations include 460 vehicles at peak, use of AI, more phone appointments and a redirect system to ease pressure. Authorities urge calling 999 only for life‑threatening emergencies.
Read at www.bbc.com
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