'Critical incident' declared at Shropshire hospitals after surge in flu and Covid-19 patients

Some routine operations and procedures may be postponed and rescheduled, only "essential" visitors are allowed at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital in Telford and people are being asked to wear face masks.

Health bosses are expected to reassess the situation on Monday, but for now have urged the public to think carefully about which service is right for their health needs.

Vanessa Whatley, chief nursing officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “Winter illnesses such as flu, colds, and sore throats are very common at this time of year, and we’re seeing that reflected in the demand for NHS services across our region. 

“Most minor conditions can be effectively managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications.

“When people seek NHS care for minor illnesses, it can delay help for those with urgent medical needs, which is something we want to avoid. We encourage residents to think about the right service for their needs. NHS 111 and local pharmacies are an excellent resource for advice and treatment for minor ailments. By choosing wisely, you can help reduce pressure on our health and care system and ensure quicker treatment for everyone.”

Bosses have said the NHS in Shropshire, Telford, and Wrekin is seeing a surge in requests for support with common winter conditions that can often be managed at home through simple self-care.

Calls to NHS 111, GP practices, and local ambulance services about flu-like symptoms and minor conditions have risen significantly since the Christmas period. 

The surge is making it more challenging for patients with urgent or emergency needs to access timely care, bosses say.

Patients are advised that flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, fevers, and sore throats, can often be treated with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol and ibuprofen. 

Since antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like flu, people are encouraged to avoid contacting their GP for these symptoms and instead use NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk or consult their local pharmacy for guidance.

Patients who do have non-urgent procedures scheduled over the next few days are urged to continue to attend their appointment as usual unless informed otherwise.

As well as reducing visitor hours, the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) is also asking all patients, visitors and colleagues to wear face masks in all areas to reduce the infection risk to vulnerable patients and prevent the spread of infections. 

Paula Gardner, SaTH interim chief nursing officer, said: “Due to the rising numbers of flu, Covid-19 and other winter illnesses, we have made the difficult decision to reduce visiting to essential visitors only, including for critical patients, birthing partners and other select groups.

“This will protect our most vulnerable patients and reduce the rising spread of infections. We are also asking all patients, visitors and staff to wear masks and practise good hand hygiene.

“We are grateful for everyone’s support in following these necessary measures, which are essential for keeping everyone safe. 

“We know how important visitors are to a patient’s care, and if anyone needs support to speak to a patient, please contact the ward, which will do everything they can to support and keep you informed. 

“We will continue to keep these measures under regular review and will fully reintroduce visiting as soon as we can.

“We also urge everyone who is eligible to get their winter vaccinations, as it is not too late and this is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

Further advice on managing flu and other seasonal illnesses at home can be found on the NHS website at nhs.uk/conditions/flu.

For life-threatening conditions call 999 or visit A&E for chest pain, severe bleeding, or serious injuries.

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