Hospitals introduce mask-wearing rules as flu cases continue to rise
Several hospitals in South Wales are enforcing masks in a bid to reduce cases
A number of hospitals are to enforce rules on wearing masks on their premises in a bid to stop flu cases rising.
The number of cases of flu within hospitals is continuing to go up as the winter season continues to stretch NHS resources, resulting in health boards across the UK taking action.
In South Wales, the local NHS health board has recommended that those entering hospitals should wear masks across the assessment, emergency and waiting areas.
Cardiff and Vale health board have also urged that those who may have any sign of flu or another respiratory infection.
They added: "Our colleagues in Public Health Wales estimate that flu rates are likely to peak by the end of next week, so we must do everything we can to reduce the spread of infection."
Official data in England has also indicated a sharp rise in the number of confirmed cases of the flu, which has been described as a "quad-demic" of illnesses including norovirus, flu, COVID and RSV.
Similarly, in Scotland - GP consultations regarding flu have reached their highest levels in seven years, according to new statistics.
Figures that were released by Public Health Scotland found that flu cases confirmed in laboratories had increased by 63% across all groups within the last seven days.
Speaking about the rise in cases, Dr Nicholas Phin from Public Health Scotland, said: "Although we always expect to see increases in flu in winter, currently we are seeing particularly high levels of the virus circulating.
"This is a concern as flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation and even death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, young children and those with underlying health conditions.
"Vaccination is one of the best tools we have in protecting against serious illness from flu. If you're eligible for a flu, or Covid-19, vaccine it's not too late to take up the offer and get protected."
In the Republic of Ireland, flu cases have continued to rise, with around 750 people currently receiving treatment in hospital for symptoms.