Brits told NOT to go to A&E as cases of winter bug explode & ‘tidal wave’ of flu swamps NHS – The Sun

BRITS have been advised to not go to A&E as circumstances of a winter bug explode – and a “tidal wave” of flu swamps the NHS.

Public well being consultants have warned these with norovirus to remain at dwelling amid fears of a surge within the highly-transmittable an infection.

They stated the bug might rip by way of hospitals the place sufferers are already unwell with different sicknesses, such because the flu.

It comes as the same old spike in norovirus circumstances has “begun early” this yr, in accordance with UK Well being Safety Company (UKHSA).

Medical director on the College Hospitals of Northamptonshire, Hermant Nemade, stated: “It could create issues in hospitals if [norovirus] is introduced into an surroundings the place sufferers are already unwell by way of different medical situations.

“As a result of the virus may be very infectious, it means we have to take extra precautions corresponding to enhanced cleansing and lowered motion on affected wards, which might result in restrictions in visiting.”

Sally Burns, the director of public well being on West Northamptonshire Council, additionally cautioned towards placing pointless stress on well being companies.

She stated: “It is actually necessary that you just stay away from hospital and different healthcare settings, corresponding to GP practices, as most individuals can handle their signs at dwelling with none medical intervention.”

Norovirus is a a abdomen bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

The NHS advises those that have the virus to relaxation and hydrate with fluids.

Sufferers ought to begin feeling higher in round two to 3 days.

Considerations a couple of surge in norovirus circumstances come amid a “tidal wave” of flu – wherein one in 4 checks on Brits of all ages examined constructive, in accordance with the UKHSA.

Earlier this month, a median of 1,861 flu sufferers had been in hospital daily, up from 1,099 the earlier week – 3.5 occasions larger than the identical time final yr.

Well being chiefs pleaded with Brits to get vaccinated instantly if eligible to keep away from “festive flu” earlier than it was “too late”.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, boss of NHS England, stated: “The tidal wave of flu circumstances and different seasonal viruses hitting hospitals is de facto regarding for sufferers and for the NHS – the figures are including to our ‘quad-demic’ worries.”

He added: “With one week left to e-book your vaccine, I can’t stress sufficient the significance of getting booked in to guard your self towards critical sickness and to keep away from ‘festive flu.'”

Well being and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, stated: “With A&Es dealing with file demand, we’re persevering with to encourage individuals to guard themselves, their household, and the NHS by getting vaccinated earlier than it’s too late.”

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