Raigmore Hospital ward closed after flu outbreak

AN outbreak of flu has shut down a medical ward at the Highlands flagship hospital.

• Ten flu cases confirmed on Ward 5A at Raigmore Hospital

• Public urged to make appointment for flu jab if eligible

Ten patients were confirmed as having the flu virus on Ward 5A, forcing bosses to close it to new admissions and visitors.

Dr Adam Brown, Consultant Microbiologist for NHS Highland, said: “During the winter it is quite common for there to be illnesses such as flu. We know that it is out there in the community and it is likely it has been brought into the hospital.

“As well as restricting visiting to the affected ward we are also asking people not to come to the hospital to visit if they have had flu until at least seven days after the onset of symptoms. By doing this we will be able to limit the spread as much as possible.

“Hospital staff will of course be very happy to talk to visitors on the phone so they can get updates on how their relatives are.”

The virus, which is very infectious and can easily be passed on makes people feel much worse than if they have an ordinary cold.

Dr Ken Oates, Consultant in Public Health and Flu Immunisation Co-ordinator at NHS Highland, said: “It is not too late for those who have not received their flu jab to do so.

“If you are in an ‘at risk’ group then it’s very important to ensure that you are protected from the virus as you can suffer from serious complications if you do catch flu.

“We would like to urge all remaining local people who are eligible for the flu jab to make an appointment with your GP to get the free vaccination as soon as you can.”

Symptoms of flu are a sudden onset of fever, shivering, headache, dry cough and aching muscles and joints. Sufferers may feel ill and have a temperature for up to a week. It could also result in patients feeling week and in low spirits for several weeks longer.

A hospital spokeswoman added that there is no specific treatment for flu and it was not usually necessary to visit a doctor.

The best course of action is to stay at home, keep warm and rest. Take painkillers such as paracetamol to help with symptoms and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Pharmacists are also able to give advice on the control of your symptoms.

People should also adhere to strict hand washing techniques to reduce the spread of the virus.