Health chiefs are reminding football fans to prioritize their health and seek medical attention when needed, following analysis that shows a significant decrease in emergency room (A&E) visits during England's matches in Euro 2024. The findings come as the national team prepares to begin its World Cup campaign.
Data from Euro 2024 indicated nearly 17,000 fewer A&E attendances than anticipated during the periods when England was playing. The reduction in visits was more pronounced when matches occurred on weekends compared to midweek fixtures. The hour preceding a game saw the largest drop, with an 11% decrease in attendances. England's opening group-stage match against Serbia recorded the most significant fall, with 8.8% fewer patients seeking A&E care compared to the six-week average. Subsequent games, including the quarter-final against Switzerland (5.9% drop) and the final against Spain (5.7% drop), also experienced notable declines.
However, the period following England's matches saw a subsequent increase in demand. Hundreds more patients attended A&E in the eight hours after games concluded, largely due to a 10% rise in trauma and musculoskeletal injuries. Experts suggest these injuries were consistent with common incidents like falls and assaults.
Emma Rowland, NHS England's national clinical lead for urgent and emergency care, emphasized that the NHS remains fully operational throughout the tournament. "We know that the World Cup is a highlight in any football fan's calendar, but even the most die-hard supporter needs to ensure they put their health first and seek emergency treatment when they need it," Rowland stated. She urged individuals to use NHS services as they normally would, calling 999 for emergencies and utilizing 111 or 111 online for other healthcare needs, advising fans to "enjoy the tournament - but not in a way that turns a great night watching England into an unnecessary trip to A&E."