Public health leads urge public support following the continued surge in winter illnesses

NHS and public health leaders across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire are urging everyone to take a few small steps to help prevent the spread of winter illnesses following a sharp increase in the number of people being admitted to hospital with flu over recent weeks. 

Monitoring from the UK Health Security Agency showed flu and RSV are both circulating at medium levels with local data showing that 96 local hospital beds are currently occupied by people with flu and further community beds also occupied by people with flu.  

Dr Joanne Medhurst, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, said: "We are seeing a significant rise in flu cases locally, and this is now translating into more people needing hospital care. Flu can be extremely serious, particularly for older people, pregnant women and those with long-term health conditions.   

“Getting vaccinated is the best line of defence, but by taking a few simple steps we can all play a big role in reducing the spread of infections. By washing hands regularly, catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and knowing when to stay off work or keep children off school, you can help protect yourself and your community this winter.” 

Professor Steve Hams, Group Chief Nursing and Improvement Officer at Bristol NHS Group, said: “Winter pressures are already being felt across our local NHS, and, like many areas across the country, we are seeing a rise in people testing positive for flu in hospitals and communities. We understand this is a challenging time for everyone, and we are grateful to people for the steps they are taking to keep themselves and others well. 

“As always, we urge people to attend our emergency departments only for serious injuries or life-threatening emergencies. Most respiratory viruses can be safely managed at home, and local pharmacists can provide advice, treatment, and reassurance. NHS 111 is also available to guide people to the right care. 

"We also ask that anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms - even if mild - avoid visiting loved ones in hospital. This helps protect vulnerable patients and eases pressure on already busy services. 

“By making these small but important choices, we can reduce the spread of flu and other winter illnesses, ensuring hospital care remains available for those who need it most.” 

A joint statement from Christina Gray, Director of Public Health at Bristol City Council; Matt Lenny, Director of Public Health at North Somerset Council; and Sarah Weld, Director of Public Health at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “Cases of flu are rapidly rising across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire so please help prevent the spread through practising good hygiene (such as regular hand washing, using a tissue when you cough or sneeze) and by people, including children, staying at home when they are unwell. This is particularly important as the days get colder, and people are gathering together indoors more which can spread viruses and respiratory infections more easily. 

“If you are in one of the priority groups for flu vaccinations such as people in a clinical risk group, if you are pregnant, a carer or over 65, having the vaccine will provide you with the most protection against serious illness. If you are eligible, book your free NHS vaccination online today. It is safe and it will make a difference to both you and the people around you.” 

Five simple steps to reduce the spread of winter illnesses 

1. If eligible, take up the offer of a free NHS flu vaccination. 
2. Wash your hands regularly for 15-20 seconds with soap and water.  
3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze, bin the tissue, and wash your hands. 
4. Let fresh air in when you can. Even opening windows for a short time can help remove stale air that contains virus particles and prevent the spread of illnesses. 
5. Tempting as it is to head out or go into the office for work, consider staying at home if you’re feeling unwell – to give yourself time to recover and to prevent passing on germs. The Department for Education also provide a useful guide on when to keep children home from school. 

Free flu vaccinations are still available across many local pharmacies in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. They can also be given at local GP practices and walk-in clinics. 

Further information about flu vaccine eligibility and local walk-in clinics in the Bristol area on the Healthier Together website.