A leading hospital trust has urged patients to avoid visits following a surge in aggressive flu cases sweeping across the UK. Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham has declared a ‘critical incident’ as a flood of flu sufferers strains A&E bed capacity.
Queen Elizabeth Hospital Hits Breaking Point
A spokesperson warned the public: “Due to extreme pressures in our emergency department, rising flu cases, and high demand for beds, we have declared a critical incident. Please consider other services for minor healthcare needs.”
This alert comes as NHS staff and patients are once again being asked to wear masks in several hospitals to curb flu spread, which has hit hard and early this winter.
Flu Forces NHS to Bring Back Masks
From today, staff at Frimley NHS Foundation Trust, including hospitals in Slough, Ascot, and Camberley, will wear surgical masks on clinical wards amid soaring flu infections locally. Other trusts in Surrey, Sussex, and Swindon have reinstated mask requirements in A&E and clinical areas.
University Hospitals Sussex has ordered all staff and visitors in emergency and affected wards to wear face masks. Swindon’s Great Western Hospitals Trust has also urged visitors and patients to mask up publicly.
Mask and Sanitiser Sales Spike Again
Mask-wearing, a staple during the Covid-19 pandemic, fell off after social distancing rules ended in 2022. Now, their comeback mirrors a fresh wave of caution.
Flu Wave Shows No Signs of Slowing
- The mutant flu strain is causing unprecedented hospital admissions this season.
- Hospitals face critical bed shortages and staff shortages as the virus spreads fast.
- Officials urge the public to seek alternatives for minor issues and follow hygiene guidance.
Stay safe, keep masks on where advised, and consider options other than A&E for minor ailments as flu cases surge across the UK this winter.
