People urged to avoid hospitals if they have flu-like symptoms
Flu cases rising across Northamptonshire as hospitals issue advice
Infection control experts at University Hospitals of Northamptonshire are asking people to avoid visiting hospitals or using emergency departments if they have flu-like symptoms.
As flu begins to impact NHS services this season, emergency departments at Northampton General Hospital and Kettering General Hospital remain open for those with serious or life-threatening conditions, but flu is not usually one of them.
So far this week, the hospitals have started to see flu cases with 15 flu-positive patients admitted at Kettering General Hospital and 14 at Northampton General Hospital.
Advice for the public
The hospitals are urging wider support from the public. Holly Slyne, Associate Director of Infection Prevention & Control for UHN, said: “Like many other hospitals across the country we are starting to see the impact of flu and clearly for us we need to do everything we can to protect our patients, many of whom are elderly and more vulnerable to viral illnesses.
“One thing the public can do to support us is not to visit relatives or friends in hospitals if you are unwell with flu-like symptoms right now, or have been unwell in the last 48 hours.
“Also please do not attend our emergency departments with these symptoms as in most cases we will redirect you to community services such as pharmacies to help you relieve your symptoms.”
People are encouraged to stay home when managing ordinary cases of flu and similar illnesses. Symptoms like a sudden high temperature, aching body, dry cough, feeling tired, or loss of appetite can usually be treated at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. NHS 111 or a GP can be contacted if symptoms worsen.
Vaccination assistance
Flu vaccinations are strongly encouraged for vulnerable groups including those aged 65 or over, individuals with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, care home residents, or those with weakened immune systems. Vaccines can be accessed through GP surgeries or some pharmacies.
Pregnant women over 28 weeks are also invited to receive vaccinations protecting their unborn babies against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV, another seasonal virus causing coughs and colds, can lead to severe breathing difficulties in babies. Cases of RSV are beginning to rise, though more slowly compared to flu.