Trust reports an increase in seasonal symptoms and winter illness.
Milton Keynes University Hospital has stepped up action to minimise the spread of seasonal infections after reporting an increase in cases of illness among patients and staff.
Now hospital bosses are appealing to visitors to ‘think again’ about entering the building if they have flu-like symptoms.
“We are seeing a growth in the number of cases of flu” said Dr Ian Reckless, Chief Medical Officer at MKUH. “Whilst there is always significant demand for our services at this time of year, we are now feeling the added pressure of winter illnesses.
“The MKUH team is working hard to ensure that staff don’t spread infection, and I would like to appeal to the Milton Keynes community to play their part too. Please don't come into the hospital if you have flu-like symptoms and were planning to visit a family member or friend.
“We empathise with everyone who wants to see their loved ones, especially over the festive season, but keeping infections out of the hospital helps us to keep everyone safe at this time when they need our care most.”
MKUH has shared further guidance with hospital visitors to help prevent the spread of infections. They include:
- Do not visit the hospital if you have had flu-like symptoms, diarrhoea and/or vomiting during the past 48 hours
- The same applies if you have been in contact with someone who has had these symptoms in the past 48 hours
- Get vaccinated for flu and Covid-19
- If you wish to visit the hospital, wash your hands thoroughly before and during your visit
- For help with non-urgent medical issues, please avoid the Emergency Department and go through NHS111 instead
Dr Reckless reminded MK residents that the Emergency Department is the right place to visit if someone is experiencing, for example, loss of consciousness, chest pain, breathing difficulties, or has been in a serious incident such as a road accident.
"I must emphasise that if you have any of these serious conditions or symptoms, we want to see you,” he added. “The people we are asking to stay away from the hospital are those who have symptoms of winter illnesses that can be managed at home, or with the support of a pharmacist or GP.”
To find out more about keeping safe this winter, visit: Winter vaccinations and winter health - NHS
