With local hospitals coming under increasing pressure after the festive break, people are being asked to help stop the spread of the flu and norovirus bugs and help minimise disruption to local services.
Make sure you get your flu jab
The flu virus strikes in winter and it can be far more serious than you think.
Flu can lead to serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia, and it can be deadly, that’s why the flu vaccine is offered free of charge on the NHS to people who are at risk. You can find more information at www.nhs.uk/getflujab.
Having the vaccination will protect you against flu and will also mean you’ll avoid passing the virus on to people who might be more at risk from complications, such as older people, children, and people with long-term medical conditions.
Norovirus / diarrhoea and vomiting (D&V)
Unless it is essential, if you have symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting please do not visit hospital or any healthcare setting until you have been clear of symptoms for 72 hours (three days).
If you are due for an appointment, please call the number on your appointment letter to rearrange to a different date and time.
People who are due to visit hospital for an elective (planned) procedure or operation and have been unwell with any kind of sickness, diarrhoea or flu like symptoms are asked to ring the hospital in advance.
Thorough hand washing with soap and water can help stop the spread of bugs. Using alcohol gel by itself will not work.
For more information, visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk
