Borders General Hospital under 'extreme pressure' following spike in Covid cases

There are as many patients in hospitals in our region with Covid today than at any time during the pandemic.

That's according to local health chiefs who say Borders General Hospital is at capacity and its Accident and Emergency Department is "exceptionally busy"

NHS Borders is describing the situation as "very challenging" but say staff are working round the clock to care for patients.

The health board is urging the public to help ease the pressure by collecting loved one's who are ready to be discharged, and calling NHS 24 before attending at hospital - unless their condition is life-threatening, in which case they should dial 999.

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Anyone in need of treatment is being warned thay may face longer waits.

And anyone feeling unwell is being advised not to visit family and friends until they feel better.

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In a statement, the health board's Director of Acute Services, Gareth Clinkscale says: “We are currently experiencing extreme pressures across the health system.

"The Borders General Hospital is at capacity. Our beds are full and our Emergency Department is exceptionally busy, with a number of people requiring admission.

"Covid-19 rates are also increasing quickly and we now have as many patients in our hospitals who have tested positive for Covid-19 than at any time over the last few years.

"This is a very challenging situation and our incredible staff throughout the system are working round the clock to care for their patients."

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But he adds: "It's important to remember that with Covid-19, and other viruses still circulating, hand-washing is the single most effective way to prevent infections from spreading. Please make sure you are regularly washing your hands with warm, soapy water to protect you, your family and those around you.”

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