Vaccinations encouraged to reduce impact on NHS
Clinical staff at Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) are encouraging eligible people to get their flu and COVID vaccinations as the impact of infectious winter respiratory viruses is being felt at one local hospital and could affect more this winter.
This echoes the statement made by the Welsh Government (opens in new tab) today that many people with health conditions that put them at greater risk have not yet taken up their offer of vaccination this year.
Recent multiple ward closures at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, due to positive cases of influenza and COVID-19, are worrying signs of what can happen when outbreaks occur in healthcare settings.
Every year respiratory viruses like flu spread and cause illness. They are especially dangerous to people who are vulnerable to infection, such as the very young, pregnant women, older adults, and those with long term health conditions.
Dr Robin Ghosal, Respiratory Consultant and Hospital Director at Prince Philip Hospital, Hywel Dda UHB, said:
“It has been a difficult week with multiple wards closed at Glangwili Hospital. I first want to thank all the staff involved for their hard work and dedication to ensuring patients continue to get the care they need during these outbreaks.
“Within affected wards all staff are wearing masks and visiting is limited to help stop the spread.
“Our local community can help us avoid outbreaks by not visiting family and friends in hospital if you are feeling unwell.
“Annual flu vaccination is also undoubtedly the best way to protect against catching or spreading flu. Not only can it prevent you from becoming very unwell, it can also help reduce your risk of secondary infections such as pneumonia which can be very dangerous if you are clinically vulnerable.
“It is so important that everyone eligible takes the opportunity to get protected while they still can, and especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas period.”
Flu vaccination is one of the best ways to protect against catching and spreading flu. Flu viruses are constantly changing and so every year the flu vaccine is changed to match the flu viruses likely to be circulating.
Dr Ardiana Gjini, Director of Public Health for Hywel Dda UHB, added: “NHS Wales health and social care workers are recommended to have annual flu vaccination to protect themselves and those in their care. This also helps reduce the level of sickness absences and contributes to keeping the NHS and social care services running.
“Here in Hywel Dda we are working hard to vaccinate our vulnerable members of our community across west Wales and our workforce by working with GPs, pharmacies, and schools as well as setting up regular staff clinics and training peer vaccinators.
“Flu vaccines are quick, safe and effective at preventing weeks of serious illness.”
Check your eligibility for the flu and COVID-19 vaccinations this winter and find out more here:
Flu vaccine and COVID-19 Autumn Vaccine - Public Health Wales (opens in new tab)