UPDATE: Flu cases in Cornwall are surging, with an alarming average of 17 beds occupied daily by flu patients at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust as of the week ending December 14, 2023. This figure marks a significant increase from just 11 beds the previous week and 8 at the end of November, indicating the highest hospitalization rate for this time of year in recent history.
Health officials are warning of a potential “tidal wave of flu” that is pushing hospital admissions across the UK to critical levels. The latest statistics reveal approximately 2,660 people are being admitted to hospitals daily, reflecting a staggering 55% increase from the week prior. The situation is compounded by rising ambulance callouts, which have reached 48,814, further straining healthcare resources.
The H3N2 flu strain has mutated into a more aggressive variant, raising alarms among specialists about its impact, particularly as families gather for Christmas celebrations. Experts from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health warn that this new strain could lead to severe complications, including rare instances of fatality in otherwise healthy children.
The pressure on healthcare settings is expected to escalate, especially as junior doctors have voted for a five-day walkout in England, potentially disrupting services during this critical period. As flu season has started roughly a month earlier than in previous years, the outlook remains concerning.
“We are facing unprecedented levels of flu-related hospitalizations,”
said a spokesperson for the NHS, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures.
The Royal Cornwall Hospital at Treliske, along with West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance and St Michael’s Hospital in Hayle, are among the facilities grappling with this surge. It’s crucial for residents to stay informed about the flu’s impact on local healthcare services.
For continuous updates on how this situation unfolds, readers can access an interactive map detailing flu patient numbers in hospitals across England. The urgency to act is clear, as families prepare for the holiday season amidst rising health risks.
Stay safe and informed this festive period, and consider vaccination options to protect yourself and loved ones. For breaking news in Cornwall, join CornwallLive on WhatsApp for direct updates right to your phone.
