Patients are being urged to avoid attending Accident and Emergency departments in West Yorkshire unless they have a life-threatening illness or injury. NHS services across West Yorkshire are described as being extremely busy and people should only attend A&E when care is needed for life-threatening illness or injury.
West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership is asking all members of the public to play their part in “protecting services for those who need them most right now, and throughout the rest of winter.” Patients suffering with three viruses are putting hospitals under severe pressure.
A spokesman for the NHS in West Yorkshire said: “Across the country winter has brought with it increased demand for hospitals and NHS services as cases of flu, COVID-19 and RSV are higher than normal, and West Yorkshire is no exception.”
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common cause of coughs and colds and people usually get better by themselves, although it can sometimes be serious for babies and older adults.
The West Yorkshire NHS spokesman said: “We are seeing extremely high levels of people attending our hospital emergency departments, many of whom have flu, of whom a large number have not had their flu vaccine. Together we can help lessen these pressures and keep ourselves and our loved ones as well as possible and out of hospital throughout winter by following the simple steps below.”
Dr James Thomas, Medical Director, NHS West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, said: “We know this winter is proving to be tough for NHS services across West Yorkshire. By taking simple steps like using pharmacies for minor ailments, getting vaccinated, and using NHS 111 for advice, you can help us ensure that our services are there for those who need urgent and emergency care the most.
“Our staff across our health and care services are there to help all of us, so let’s help them. Together, we can make a real difference in keeping West Yorkshire safe and well this winter.”
The NHS has issued the following advice:
Use the right service
For medical advice on things like colds, tummy troubles, rashes and pains, think pharmacy first. If your illness or ailment is more serious but not life or limb threatening, your nearest Urgent Treatment Centre can help. That’s for things such as cuts and grazes, sprains, strains and simple broken bones, eye injuries and urine infections.
Be prepared
Make sure your medicine cabinet is fully stocked up. Get your flu jab – it’s not too late.
Visit NHS 111 online
If you’re not sure what service you need, visit the NHS 111 website or call 111. The NHS 111 team can help direct you to the most appropriate service, including mental health services.
Look after each other
Look out for vulnerable neighbours, friends and family members who may need extra support over winter. Check in to see if they need help with shopping or collecting prescriptions, and make sure their home is safe and warm.
Follow simple hygiene practice
Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and catch sneezes and coughs in tissues and throw them in the bin quickly.
Some NHS services may have additional guidance in place to help protect patients and staff, including mask wearing. Make sure to check before attending.
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