East Lancashire Hospitals Trust issues warning over winter flu

North-West NHS bosses fear this is the worst flu season in the region in recent years, as cases and hospitalisations rise in time for Christmas.

Their warning comes just days after their counterparts at the Royal Blackburn Hospital apologised for long queues at its emergency department.

An East Lancashire Hospitals Trust spokesman said it was inundated with very poorly patients and reminded people there were more appropriate services  available for many patients including pharmacies, GPs, the Urgent Treatment Centre at Burnley General Teaching Hospital or the Minor Injuries Unit at Accrington Acorn Centre.

North-West NHS bosses said the region was facing an unprecedented flu wave this winter with latest data showing an average of 295 people were in hospital last week with flu –  more than double the number from the same week last year.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning for NHS England in the North West, said: “The latest published data on the number of people in hospital with flu really does confirm our fears that we could be experiencing the worst flu season in recent years.

“With the first wave of flu hitting the NHS more than a month earlier than usual, it really is important to come forward now for the free flu vaccination and get this important protection and to avoid becoming seriously ill.

“The flu vaccine is our best defence against the flu virus, and it also helps to reduce pressure on hospitals and hard-working NHS staff who will be working flat out over the festive season.”

It normally takes about two weeks following a flu jab to develop maximum protection, meaning those who want to be protected for Christmas day get togethers will need to be jabbed by Thursday  December 11.

Dr Paula Cowan, regional medical director for primary care at NHS England in the North West, said: “Flu cases are significantly higher now than we have seen at this time in previous years, so now is the time for eligible people to get themselves vaccinated and protected ahead of any family get-togethers they have planned over the festive period.

“Every Christmas we see far too many older adults and children admitted to hospital because of flu, and the best way to avoid this situation is getting your flu jab if you are eligible.”