One-in-15 beds at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary filled with influenza patients

Almost one-in-15 beds at Grampian’s biggest hospital are currently occupied by patients with influenza – with the number rising daily.

The north-east has seen a sharp increase in the number of patients with flu in recent days, as the virus spreads widely in the community.

Across the region 58 patients are currently hospitalised with the illness, with 42 of those in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.

Public health consultant, Mr Chris Littlejohn said: “We’ve seen a recent, sharp increase in influenza, trending towards what we’d consider a high rate.

“Currently we have the equivalent of around 2.5 wards at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary filled with flu patients.

“We usually see flu numbers peak sometime between early January and mid-February – so there is certainly the potential for the number of people hospitalised, and ill in the community, to grow further in the coming days and weeks.

“We currently have around 260% more patients in hospital with flu, than at the same time last year, when admissions peaked in early January at around 40.

“The last bad year we had for flu was 2018. We’ve already eclipsed the peak of hospital admissions for then, with numbers still rising.

Mr Littlejohn said that vaccines “really are the first line of defence” but there is more members of the public can do to protect themselves and loved-ones.

“Flu is no joke, if you are eligible for the vaccine, it’s not too late. Our clinics in Aberdeen, Elgin, Stonehaven, Peterhead and Fraserburgh are open for drop-ins, for those who are eligible,” he said.

“We need people to make sure they are looking after themselves and each other, as much as possible.

“Do not come to any hospital to visit friends or family if you are feeling ill, even if you think ‘it’s just a sniffle’. What is a sniffle to you, might be a life-threatening flu infection to a vulnerable person.

“Practice good hand hygiene, where possible ensure there is ventilation, avoid crowds, and ensure good coughing and sneezing etiquette.

“If you do feel unwell, stay at home and self-isolate until you feel better.

“We need employers to play their part too and not encourage workers to attend when ill.”

For more information on winter vaccines visit nhsinform.scot/winter-vaccines

For information on self-help with flu-like illness visit nhsinform.scot/self-help-guides/self-help-guide-flu-like-illness