'Stay home': Warning issued to patients by Glasgow hospital over rise in flu cases
Flu cases are increasing across Scotland 🤧
- Cases of the flu are increasing across Scotland.
- Patients are being reminded not to attend the hospital if they have symptoms.
- Those who are eligible for the flu jab are being urged to book an appointment.
Patients are being reminded not to attend the hospital if they have symptoms of the flu, as cases of the flu are already increasing across Scotland.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is asking people with mild to moderate flu symptoms to stay home instead of visiting friends and family in the hospital or attending A&E, to help prevent spreading the virus to vulnerable patients.
Cases are continuing to increase across the UK after an unusually early flu season. The latest data from the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) found that as of November 25, flu cases had risen with a weekly average rate of 11.6% compared with 10.7% in the previous week.
NHSGGC Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Dr Iain Kennedy said: “Flu season is here, and we want to ensure that you, your loved ones, and those who are the most vulnerable stay protected.
“The A&E waiting room isn’t the place to be with mild flu symptoms. Not only do you risk spreading the virus to others, but you’ll also have a wait that you could avoid if you were to call 111.
“They will signpost you to the best place for you while you stay in the comfort of your home, including helping those with more severe symptoms or higher risk of complications to access appropriate care.
“If you have a loved one in the hospital and you are experiencing flu symptoms, it is better to miss a visit than to take the risk of passing it on to them or others around them. Overall, the best thing to do to maximise protection from the flu is to get the vaccine if you’re eligible.”
What are the symptoms of flu?
Signs you have the flu can include a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, a hoarse voice, a cough or feeling tired. Additional symptoms can include a headache, difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, tummy pain or feeling sick and being sick.
Who is eligible for the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine remains the best defence against flu for children and adults. Those eligible for a flu jab include people aged 65 and over, those in clinical risk groups, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, pregnant women and children, care home residents and carers, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff.
Flu season has arrived early this year. You can find out how to book your flu vaccine at NHSGGC.
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