Health board asks patients and visitors to wear masks in emergency departments as 'flu numbers increase
People visiting the emergency departments at acute hospitals in Cwm Taf Morgannwg are being asked to wear masks to help prevent the spread of flu.
The request comes as the health board manages an increase in the number of patients arriving at its emergency departments (EDs) with the virus.
Masks are being made available near the entrances at each of the three EDs so that patients and visitors can protect themselves from the virus and avoid passing it on to others.
Staff within the EDs will also be wearing masks.
Flu symptoms usually include fever, chills, headaches and aching muscles, and you can often get a cough and sore throat at the same time. People sometimes think flu is just a bad cold, but having flu can be much worse and you may need to stay in bed for a few days if you have the virus.
Whilst most people will fully recover from flu after a few weeks, for older people and those who have existing health conditions, it can cause very serious complications. In the most severe cases, it can even lead to death.
Richard Hughes, Deputy Director of Nursing for CTMUHB, said: “This time of year we often see an increase in cases of flu within our communities. Sadly, many people will already have had their Christmas ruined by the virus.
“When flu enters and circulates within a hospital it can cause significant problems, posing a real risk to the health of patients and causing absences among our staff, so we need to do everything we can to keep the virus at bay.
“This week we have seen a high number of patients arriving at our busy emergency departments, where the virus can easily and quickly spread. When someone with flu coughs or sneezes, they can spread the virus in droplets. Wearing a mask protects you from breathing these in and, if you have the flu, it can prevent you from spreading the virus yourself.
“We know that wearing a mask can be uncomfortable for some, but we hope everyone coming into one of our emergency departments will take this small but important step to protect themselves, our patients and our staff as they work hard to keep people’s loved-ones well.”
From today until further notice, anyone attending the emergency departments at Prince Charles Hospital, the Princess of Wales Hospital, and the Royall Glamorgan Hospital, will be asked to put on a mask as soon as they arrive.
People are also asked to washi their hands frequently with soap and water, or to use hand sanitiser where provided. If you are unwell with a virus such as flu or Norovirus (a winter sickness bug) please avoid visiting a hospital unless absolutely necessary.
27/12/24