Flu Cases Surge at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Health Board Reports

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary is currently experiencing a “sharp rise” in influenza cases. The health board disclosed that nearly one in 15 beds at Grampian’s largest hospital are presently occupied by individuals with flu, a figure that continues to increase daily. Out of the 58 patients hospitalized with the illness throughout the Grampian region, 42 are located at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. According to the health board, the current number of flu patients in hospital is approximately 260% higher compared to the same period last year. Chris Littlejohn, a public health consultant, characterized a “recent sharp” escalation in flu, indicating a trajectory towards what is deemed a high prevalence. Mr. Littlejohn stated, “Currently we have the equivalent of around 2.5 wards at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary filled with flu patients.” He added, “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.” He noted that 2018 marked the most recent “bad year” for influenza. Mr. Littlejohn further commented, “We’ve already eclipsed the peak of hospital admissions for then, with numbers still rising.” Mr. Littlejohn emphasized that vaccines “really are the first line of defence.” He also advocated for diligent hand hygiene practices and advised against visiting hospitalized friends or family members when experiencing illness. Earlier in the current month, the chief executive of NHS Grampian indicated that the health board remained in a “very busy and challenging” state as the winter season commenced. Last month, the health board announced a critical incident. This resulted in certain ambulance patients being redirected to medical facilities beyond its jurisdiction because of high demand at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. The incident was subsequently de-escalated. Adam Coldwells, NHS Grampian’s chief executive, informed BBC Scotland News that the board was pursuing additional beds to enhance its capacity. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.