Hospital's campaign amid 'severe flu season'

University Hospital Southampton is calling for people to help ease strain on services

A hospital has called for people to take precautions to ease the burden on NHS services as the UK braces for what could be "one of the most severe flu seasons in decades".

University Hospital Southampton (UHS) has launched its Winter Well campaign, aimed at helping people "make the right choices for themselves and their loved ones".

UHS said flu cases nationally were currently three times higher than this time last year, with surges in norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) adding further pressure to already stretched NHS services.

Sarah Swanton, nurse and operations centre manager at UHS, said staff continued to work with "extraordinary dedication" under "intense pressure".

"Like anyone, they may become unwell, and when they do, it places additional strain on our already stretched teams," she said.

Ms Swanton said the hospital was working to ensure operations, clinics and appointments were not disrupted.

The campaign has listed five steps to "stay well and support your hospital".

These are:

1. Only attend the Emergency Department (ED) if your condition is urgent and poses a risk to life or limb.

2. Get a flu jab as soon as possible to protect yourself and your loved ones.

3. Avoid visiting hospital if unwell with symptoms of flu, sickness or respiratory illness, to protect vulnerable patients and staff.

4. Prepare for times when you may not feel your best by keeping basic supplies and remedies at home – seek timely medical advice from your GP, pharmacist, or NHS 111 to help avoid hospital admission.

5. Actively support hospital discharge plans when loved ones are ready to return home.