Flu hospitalisations in Wales surge as charity issues warning
Wales is facing a sharp increase in flu-related hospitalisations, with the latest NHS Wales figures revealing a "worrying" spike in admissions.
In the week ending 15 December, 195 people were admitted to hospital due to the flu - a 44% rise compared to the previous week, which saw 135 admissions.
Admissions are 3.5 times higher than the same week last year (week ending 18 December 2023), when just 56 flu hospital admissions were reported, according to the latest NHS Wales surveillance figures.
It comes as NHS Wales says they are 'overwhelmed' as the increase in admissions has put added pressure on an already struggling service.
As flu cases continue to rise, health experts are urging vulnerable groups, particularly those with lung conditions, to take extra precautions.
Asthma + Lung UK, a leading lung charity, has issued "vital health advice", stressing the importance of flu vaccinations and other preventive measures.
The charity has expressed particular concern for people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions, who are at heightened risk of serious complications from the flu.
In a statement, Joseph Carter, Head of Asthma + Lung UK Cymru, said: "It’s really worrying that flu admissions are rising week on week in Wales. It’s crucial that people with lung conditions protect themselves by getting their free flu vaccine if they are eligible.
"This winter, people with lung conditions face a triple threat of flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). For some people with lung conditions, being exposed to any of these, or a combination, can cause a flare-up of symptoms and make them more vulnerable to illnesses."
The surge comes a few weeks after Glangwili Hospital closed a number of wards due to outbreaks of flu.
He added that those with asthma could face life-threatening complications and hospitalisation should they contract the flu.
"We also want people with asthma and COPD to make sure they are taking their medicines as prescribed, including using their preventer inhaler daily even when they feel well, as this builds up protection in their airways over time, and carrying their reliever inhaler with them. It is also a good idea to avoid contact with people who have cold or flu symptoms.", he said.
With the festive season fast approaching, public health officials are reminding people to remain vigilant and take steps to prevent the spread of flu, including hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and staying home if unwell.
Responding to the 'unrelenting demand' on the health service, director of the Welsh NHS Confederation Darren Hughes said: "We know in recent weeks the number of people hospitalised with flu has been rising, which, alongside higher levels of Covid, RSV and Norovirus in the winter months, puts mounting pressure on services.
He continued: "NHS organisations have put a range of urgent and emergency care interventions in place, including rapid clinical screening of 999 callers and additional Community Welfare Responders trained to attend appropriate 999 calls in their community. Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB has, for example, created a Navigation Hub to reduce conveyances to emergency departments, treating and remotely monitoring patients in their own home where appropriate."
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