Flu numbers are on the rise and in response we now have two dedicated 'flu wards at CHFT. They are Ward 6 at HRI and Ward 4d at CRH.
We're doing all we can to restrict the spread and you can do your bit too by having your vaccination if you still need it - it's never too late.
It is also important you know where the PPE (masks) are.
There are three simple ways to help prevent the spread of 'flu:
- Get your vaccine - Public Health England have confirmed all the strains we're seeing are covered by the vaccine
- Hand washing is vitally important - you can reduce the risk of spreading the virus by washing your hands regularly, but especially after coughing, sneezing and eating food
- Stay away from work if you have the 'flu - it's highly contagious and spreads rapidly.
The areas for stock supply of surgical & FFP3 Face masks (used for aerosol-generating procedures) are:
- HRI:- A & E; ICU; Ward 6; MAU; Resus cupboard
- CRH:- A & E; ICU; Ward 4D; Ward 2D
Our joint ‘flu lead, Jean Robinson, said: "We should be doing everything we possibly can to protect our patients and our colleagues from flu. We can unknowingly be carriers of the flu virus without having the symptoms. We’re not alone in seeing an increase in cases and there have been a number of deaths nationally from flu - the BBC have covered a story this week about a young fit 18 year old from Scotland.
66% of frontline colleagues are now vaccinated – though we know that almost 400 staff nurses and more than 200 HCAs are yet to have their vaccination.
Please call Occupational Health on CRH (15) 2039 if you need your vaccination.
** Our EDs have been equipped with action cards created by the Community Division (our photo shows our some of the ED team at CRH with the cards). Director of Operations, Karen Barnett, said: "The aim is to, where we can, reduce the need to admit people into hospital by making sure colleagues have an understanding what our Community offer is. This is both for those with 'flu like symptoms, as well as reminding people about our core services and route for referral, and helping avoid unnecessary admissions to hospital."