Hertfordshire and West Essex health bosses issue advice as fears of ‘quademic’ grow
Hospitals are dealing with a 350% increase in the number of people admitted with flu compared to the same period last year.
At the same time, there are rapidly rising levels of Covid, vomiting bugs and respiratory illnesses, leading some NHS bosses to dub the wave of infections a “quademic” as medics battle on four fronts.
Dr Jane Halpin, chief executive of NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board, said: “Our dedicated staff will be working over Christmas and New Year to treat everyone who really needs NHS services.
“Please play your part by being prepared for the winter months and reduce your risk of spending a miserable Christmas stuck at home or in hospital with a nasty virus.
“It’s not too late to get your vaccines – they’re free for the people most at risk and save countless lives every year.
“For the NHS, the first week of January is historically one of the busiest of the year, partly as a result of viruses and also because seriously ill people put off seeking help over the bank holidays. Getting help early helps you and others who need our services.”
Dr Halpin is urging residents to make sure they and their families are up to date with flu, Covid and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccinations. These are especially important for older people, those with underlying health conditions and pregnant women.
Those who contract the norovirus bug that causes sickness and diarrhoea should stay at home and rest, drinking lots of fluids.
The spread of the infection can be reduced by washing hands frequently with soap and water – hand gels won’t kill norovirus.
Patients should stay off school or work and away from care homes, hospitals and social occasions until clear of symptoms for at least two days.
Dr Halpin said that getting medical advice as soon as possible for illness could prevent hospital admissions and save lives.
For minor concerns, pharmacies can help when GP practices are closed. Contact NHS 111 free for urgent help.
A new online winter health and information hub has gone live, advising on how people across Hertfordshire and West Essex can look after themselves and their loved ones.
The resource aims to help everyone ‘Be prepared for winter’. Topics include vaccinations, mental health, boosting immunity by eating well and advice on keeping warm. See https://www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/winter.
A guide has been distributed to organisations like Citizens Advice and food banks so that people who are less likely to be online can access information.