Health board restricts hospital visits as flu and norovirus cases rise

NHS Dumfries and Galloway has restricted hospital visits as part of efforts to stem rising flu and norovirus cases in the area.

The health board will only allow essential visiting - to end-of-life patients, newborn babies and people with mental health issues - at all its hospitals.

It has also reintroduced mask wearing and has been encouraging GP practices to follow suit.

Public health consultant Dr Keith Allan said the public could play its part in driving figures back down.

Hospital admissions for flu have risen sharply in the region recently from single figures to more than 30 in the last recorded two weeks.

Dr Allan said: "Visiting in our hospitals is currently essential visiting only, and it must be arranged in advance with ward staff, who will advise on how to visit safely.

"Also, please don't visit at all if you're feeling unwell - even mild symptoms can spread easily to vulnerable patients and can make them seriously unwell.

"We've also reintroduced the use of masks in our clinical areas, and we're encouraging GP practices and other primary care settings to adopt the same approach."

The health board said that even a small number of cases could force wards to close and advised vaccination as a "highly effective way" of preventing transmission of flu.

"If you're eligible for flu or Covid vaccination, please take up the offer," added Dr Allan.

"Vaccination helps your body safely produce antibodies so you're prepared to fight the infection if you meet the real virus.

"It means you're less likely to become seriously unwell, and less likely to pass the illness on to others."

The health board said most people with mild flu or norovirus symptoms could manage their illness at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies.

However, it said anyone concerned about their symptoms or who was in a higher-risk group could seek advice via NHS Inform, NHS 24 on 111, or from their GP or local pharmacist.