61 patients with coronavirus are being treated in Cornwall's main hospitals
Hospital bosses have warned admissions would feel the impact of that recent rise in cases for several weeks
Last updated 3rd Nov 2021
There has been another rise in the number of patients with coronavirus being treated at Cornwall's main hospitals.
The Royal Cornwall Hospitals' Trust says 61 were being cared for as of Tuesday (November 2nd), compared to 42 on Friday.
Latest figures show three more coronavirus related deaths and 422 new cases were recorded in Cornwall in 24hrs.
Treliske recently declared an 'internal critical incident' due to extreme pressures, including Covid.
The RCHT says services are still experiencing high demand and patients are still being urged to avoid A&E unless it is a genuine emergency.
South West health officials have also warned a combination of Covid and flu could leave the NHS overwhelmed this winter.
Speaking ahead of the Halloween weekend, Emergency Department Consultant and Director of Urgent and Emergency Care at Treliske, Dr Toby Slade, said admissions would continue the impact of a recent rise in Covid infections for several weeks.
He said: "Although the last few days have been a little less pressured, it is too soon for anyone to relax just yet.
"We know that having had a spike in Covid infections in Cornwall a couple of weeks ago, the impact of that will continue to be felt in terms of admissions over the next couple of weeks.
"We're also mindful many schools have extended half term holidays, so the county is likely to remain busy next week".
Toby added: "We’re also still really keen to encourage families to help out wherever they can, as we are still seeing high numbers of people in acute and community hospitals ready to leave but waiting for some extra support at home.
"If families/friends could help with that for a short while – they may be able to access a grant of up to £1200 to help out with equipment or buying in a personal carer – it would make a really big difference to freeing up beds for those need emergency admission.
"Clearly we all want to do everything we can to reduce ambulance delays, so crews can get to the next emergency, and people who need to be in hospital can be admitted to a ward as quickly as possible".
What can I do to ease the pressure on Cornwall's NHS?
Dr Toby Slade continued: "We are seeing many people make the right choices and would urge everyone with an urgent need, that isn’t a 999 emergency, to consider all of the options available, including pharmacies and their own GP.
"The 111 online website can help you make that choice, or you can call 111.
"If you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health call 0800 038 5300. The number is available 24-hours, every day".
The 111 telephone service can also provide expert clinical advice for poorly children and book them into out of hours clinics when appropriate.
More information about choosing the right care pathway can be found on the NHS Kernow website.