With flu cases rising rapidly in the community, patients and visitors are being asked to wear a face mask when in clinical areas of the hospital.
We are introducing this important measure to help protect patients, visitors and staff from flu and other winter viruses.
You can pick up a mask at the hospital when you enter a clinical area. Please use the hand sanitiser provided and wash your hands regularly during your visit.
Evonne Hunt, Chief Nursing Officer said: “Cases of flu are very high for this time of year and there is no peak in sight yet. We’re putting in place this extra precaution to help us protect our patients, visitors and staff.
“Flu is not just a bad cold. It can cause serious and life-threatening illness for the most vulnerable. This places significant strain on our patients and already very busy services. That’s why it is so important to get the flu vaccine.
The flu vaccine is free for people who are aged 65 or over, have certain long-term health conditions, are pregnant, live in a care home, care for an older or disabled person, or live with someone who has a weakened immune system.
Evonne Hunt added: “The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu. If you are vaccinated and catch flu this winter, you are likely to have milder symptoms and recover faster, reducing your risk of needing hospital treatment.”
“If you are feeling unwell, please do not visit friends or family in hospital. Stay at home until you are fully recovered. This is essential to protect our patients who may be at high risk from flu and other winter viruses.”
Thank you for helping our local community stay well this winter.
