Preparing for a flu wave
We are issuing a last chance call for people to get their flu jab to be protected ahead of the festive holidays, as flu hospitalisations in the region surge by three quarters (76%) in just one week.
Latest data* shows the number of people in the South West in hospital with flu has gone up from an average of 79 a day in the week to 30 November to 139 a day in the last week (to 7 December). And there is a 93% increase in the number of beds taken up by flu when compared to the same week last year (week to 7 December 2024).
It shows the NHS is facing its 'worst case scenario' December with the flu surge leaving the NHS facing its busiest winter yet - and no peak in cases in sight.
Get vaccinated
The public can help the NHS and themselves by getting vaccinated as soon as possible.
Across the NHS, vaccinations are available from GP practices, pharmacies, hospitals, schools and a range of pop-up clinics and vaccine centres for those eligible. With more than two million vaccines delivered across the region so far this season.
The NHS is encouraging everyone eligible for a free flu vaccine - including people aged 65 and over, those with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, and young children - to book their appointment now through their GP, local pharmacy, or NHS online services.
Details of local clinics are published online at NHS England South West. Information on how to book an appointment for school-aged children who may have missed the flu vaccination at school is also available.
Visit NHS England South West Boost your immunity
Find vaccination clinics in Plymouth
Extra infection control measures
At University Hospitals NHS Trust we are protecting our patients by putting in place extra infection control measures on some of our wards, especially where the most vulnerable patients are treated. This includes asking visitors to those areas to wear masks. You will see clear signs in affected wards. Please follow these.
Take care if visiting
If you or someone you live with has suddenly developed a high temperature, dry cough, diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting in the last 24 hours, please keep away from our hospitals to protect our patients and staff.
Darryn Allcorn, Chief Nurse, said:
"We want people who are eligible to make sure they get their flu jab. While it takes up to two weeks to build maximum protection, getting your flu jab now will still provide a high level of protection for the festive period.
"We are taking extra precautions in our hospitals to protect our patients and this includes staff and visitors wearing masks in some wards.
“At home and in the community, simple hygiene measures also make a real difference in stopping flu spreading. If you have flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature, cough or feeling tired and achy, try to limit contact with others, especially those at higher risk. Wash your hands regularly, keep indoor spaces well-ventilated and if you need to go out while unwell, consider wearing a face mask.
"We are concerned we could see a further spike in flu cases in the New Year, so even if you miss getting vaccinated before Christmas, it is still worth coming forward. The vaccine remains the best defence against flu and getting it at any point during the winter will help protect you and those around you through the rest of the season."
