As reported previously in The Orkney News, Flu Cases at ‘Extraordinary’ Level in Scotland, Scotland’s NHS is under considerable pressure.

Health Secretary in the Scottish Government Neil Gray has praised the response from NHS and social service teams as the number of patients admitted to hospital as an emergency and testing positive for flu has surpassed the recent peak of the winter of 2022/23.

Neil Gray said:

“The resilience and determination shown by staff in the face of pressures across the health and care sector is inspiring. Every part of our health service has gone above and beyond to serve the country during the hardest months of the year.

“I’d like to thank the ambulance service staff for their sacrifice and devotion to their task, staying at work beyond the end of their shift as they wait to turnaround at hospitals.

“I’d also like to thank social care staff doing extra shifts to make up for staff being off sick with flu and GPs working at the weekends to offer appointments and bolster the resilience of the entire system.

“Hospital staff, like the porter I met at St John’s in Livingston on Christmas Eve, are working hard to turnaround beds as quickly as possible.

“This is the reality of public service – relentless, skilled, devoted and dedicated work to serve the people that need it most. Thanks to the incredible efforts of NHS staff and sure-handed planning, we are facing this with resilience and resolve.”

The figures, published by Public Health Scotland (PHS) 3 Jan 25, show that there has been a 12% increase in hospital admissions due to flu in the past week, rising from 1,375 the previous week to 1,537.

Dr Nick Phin, Director of Clinical Protecting Health at PHS, said:

“Although we always expect to see increases in flu in winter, we are seeing particularly high levels this year. This is worrying as flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

“Vaccination offers the best protection against serious illness from flu. If you’re eligible for a flu, or COVID-19 vaccine, it’s not too late to take up the offer and get protected. In many areas, drop-in clinics are running. Check your local health board website or social channels for local arrangements or you can call the national vaccination helpline on 0800 030 8013.

“We urge everyone to do what they can to reduce flu, and other respiratory infections, being spread to others. If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection and feel unwell, or have a fever, stay at home and avoid contact with other people. Visit NHS.inform to get advice on your symptoms and what to do next.

“We can all help to prevent infections, like flu, from spreading by maintaining good hand and respiratory hygiene. This includes covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, disposing of tissues responsibly, and promptly washing your hands afterwards.”