NHS Lothian has issued guidance on urgent precautions which will help protect patients and staff against flu this winter.
The health board expects a surge in flu cases in Lothian, similar to those already identified in other parts of Scotland and the UK.
To prepare and protect, all staff are being urged to get vaccinated and to wear face masks in front door and high-risk areas, such as Intensive Care or cancer wards, in a bid to stop the spread.
NHS Lothian says that while visitors are still very welcome in hospitals, they need help in minimising the risk of transmission between the community and hospital to protect some of the most vulnerable patients.
No visiting with flu-like symptoms
Relatives and friends are being asked not to visit if they have a temperature, flu-like symptoms or any vomiting or diarrhoea symptoms.
From 8am on 15 December visitors are also asked to reduce the number of visitors to one or two and where possible not to bring children under the age of 12 into hospital for visiting.
Both people who are visiting or attending hospital for outpatient appointments are also encouraged to consider wearing a mask or face covering, and to use the hand gel provided.
Point of care testing
Point of care testing will also continue in the Emergency Department for children’s and adult services to identify patients who have flu and ensure they are cared for in isolation or with other patients who have flu on admission to hospitalÂ
Michelle Carr, Chief Officer of Acute Services, NHS Lothian, said: “We are monitoring the situation across Scotland and the UK very closely and we are keen to take some actions to protect our patients, staff and services to help minimise the effects of flu.
“Vaccination is the first line of defence against flu. If you are eligible, we would urge you to make an appointment as soon as possible.
“We are also taking some common sense steps to protect our hospitals, our patients and our teams. We are asking visitors not to come if they are feeling unwell, to reduce the size of their visiting party and not to bring children under the age of 12. Members of the public should consider wearing a face covering or mask when attending our hospitals.
“These steps will help us reduce the spread of flu and protect our lifesaving services so they are there for those who need them most.”
More information is available on our website Visitors – Going to Hospital
