People showing symptoms of swine flu have been asked to stay away from accident and emergency at St Peter’s Hospital, to ease the pressure on the department.
The hospital has seen a particularly high number of children with coughs and colds coming into the hospital’s paediatric ward and staff are advising parents to keep them at home and to call the National Pandemic Flu Service in the first instance.
When they are brought to hospital they are put in isolation and forced to wear masks to prevent the spread of infection, which causes distress to some children.
Medical Director at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Trust, Dr Mike Baxter, said: “Of course we understand that people are concerned but most people who have contracted the illness have recovered well and in most cases have only experienced a relatively mild bout of flu.
“Ashford and St Peter’s is certainly well prepared for a flu pandemic, but it is important that people understand the right place to go for advice and treatment, so we and the other hospitals in the area can concentrate on dealing with those who do need emergency treatment.”
Call the helpline on 0800 1513513 if you are concerned, or your GP if you have a child under one.
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