Football fans are being warned not to delay seeking medical help during the World Cup 2026. New data from NHS England indicates a significant drop in A&E attendances during England matches at Euro 2024, with nearly 17,000 fewer visits than expected.

Key statistics reveal that:

• The most marked decline was an 11% reduction in A&E visits in the hour before kick-off.
• The group-stage match against Serbia saw an 8.8% decrease in patients compared to the six-week average.
• Quarter-final and final matches against Switzerland and Spain experienced drops of 5.9% and 5.7%, respectively.

Interestingly, attendances fell more sharply during weekend fixtures compared to midweek games. However, these lulls were often followed by a surge in demand, with hundreds more patients seeking care in the eight hours post-match.

Experts from NHS England are advising the public to seek medical attention as needed, rather than postponing visits until after games. They also cautioned against activities leading to injuries that could result in A&E visits following matches. Notably, there has been about a 10% increase in trauma and musculoskeletal attendances, consistent with falls and assaults.

Emma Rowland, NHS England’s national clinical lead for urgent and emergency care, emphasized the importance of prioritizing health, stating:

The NHS will be available as it always is throughout the next 32 days of football action – including through extra time, penalties and beyond.

She urged fans to enjoy the tournament responsibly and to utilize NHS services as they normally would, ensuring that a night of football doesn’t turn into an unnecessary trip to A&E.