NHS Borders reveals 'higher than usual' staff absence as winter illnesses spread - what you can do to help...
Last updated 21st Dec 2024
It's a message not widely heard since the coronavirus pandemic.
But everyone visiting hospital in the Scottish Borders over the festive period is being encouraged to use the hand-gel provided, on entering and leaving wards.
And anyone feeling under the weather with a cough, cold, sore throat, fever or stomach bug, is being urged to stay away until they are feeling better - and have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.
NHS Borders is issuing the reminder amid concerns over the spread of winter illnesses like flu, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), norovirus and Covid-19.
The health board says they're already to blame for a 'higher than usual' staff absence.
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Sarah Horan, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals at NHS Borders, said: “We know how much it means to visit loved ones in hospital, especially at this time of year, but we must do everything we can to reduce the spread of illnesses.
"What feels like a minor cold to you could have serious consequences if passed on to someone who is already unwell.
“By staying home if you are feeling ill and washing your hands and using hand gel when visiting healthcare settings, you are playing a vital role in keeping our patients, staff and wider communities safe this winter.”
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Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk of picking up infections.
A spokesperson for the health board added: "Winter illnesses can have serious impacts, by following these measures, you are helping to protect yourself, protect your family and protect our wider community this winter."
For more information on staying healthy and accessing healthcare this winter, click here.
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