Hospitals introduce mask-wearing rules amid fears 'flu cases may peak within 10 days'
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Several hospitals in South Wales have introduced mask-wearing rules amid fears of rising flu cases. In a move echoing steps taken during the COVID pandemic, Cwm Taf Morgannwg, Cardiff and Vale, Hywel Dda and Aneurin Bevan health boards are all bringing in the restriction.
Citing intelligence from Public Health Wales, Cardiff and Vale health board said flu cases were "likely to peak within the next 10 days" as hospitals are put under pressure by a "quad-demic" of illnesses. What is the quad-demic?. This includes norovirus and three respiratory illnesses; flu, COVID and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
It comes as UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data for England suggests that flu cases are continuing to rise, but RSV numbers may have peaked earlier this month. Similarly, in Scotland, a surge in flu cases has led to GP consultation rates hitting their highest level during winter in seven years.
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Hospital admissions in the country have also risen by 65% from 705 last week, to 1,163 this week. 'Face masks must now be worn'. The Aneurin Bevan health board, which covers Newport, Pontypool and Monmouth, said: "We are seeing a rising number of flu cases in our communities and an increase in hospital admissions.
