Flu epidemic results in high number of cases
HALTON is experiencing extremely high levels of flu, amid rising cases and growing pressure on the NHS.
One strain of influenza, known as H3N2, sparked particular concern and become known as ‘ Aussie flu’ as Australia suffered a severe outbreak late last year.
The Flusurvey map, created by Public Health England and others, reveals areas in Merseyside are now flu hotspots.
It shows most of Halton Borough, St Helens borough, and Warrington all currently have ‘very high’ levels of flu.
Flu is also circulating in Liverpool, Wirral and Sefton, and the Royal hospital has reported rising numbers of patients with the virus.
Health chiefs have had to cancel many non-urgent operations, partly as a result of the high number of patients suffering flu, including the H3N2 strain.
Hospitals are urging the public not to attend or visit unless they have significant health problems, or if their symptoms are extremely serious or last more than a week.
They have advised patients to take painkillers, rest and drink lots of water, as the symptoms usually pass on their own.
Symptoms of flu, including the ‘Aussie’ strain, include fever, aches, exhaustion, a dry cough, headaches, sore throats, diarrhoea, vomiting and trouble sleeping.
Residents can try to protect themselves by washing their hands regularly, covering their mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing and cleaning surfaces that may be infected.
The flu vaccine is also the best protection, with the jab free for adults at risk, over 65 or pregnant and for young children.
Some people fear having the vaccine, but NHS experts say serious side effects are rare.
Patients are advised to seek help if necessary from the NHS Choices website, a pharmacist or the NHS 111 helpline.
Dr Paul Fitzsimmons, consultant gerontologist at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, said: “The flu or Norovirus are pretty nasty and can make people feel very ill. However, most people do not need hospital care for these illnesses.
“Emergency departments are busy at this time of year and those attending with minor illnesses will wait. This is so we can look after patients with serious or lifethreatening conditions.
“Spreading germs can also put other people at risk. We are asking people to make sure they know what to do if they have flu or Norovirus.”
Royal chief executive and chair of the North Mersey A&E Delivery Board, Aidan Kehoe, said: “Keeping A&Es free for people who need them helps us help your loved ones. Our staff are working hard to look after patients at a time of increased demand. Help to support your NHS by taking this advice on board.” ● Winter bugs putting strain on NHS services: Page 24 ●