The NHS in Somerset continues to experience sustained pressure. A combination of cold weather, concerns about Strep A infections, RSV infections and an increase in Flu as well as other seasonal viruses continue to impact both primary care as well as our hospitals.
Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer, NHS Somerset said:
“The NHS in Somerset is working extremely hard to keep services running and to keep people safe. This is especially important at the current time, while services are experiencing a sustained period of pressure.”
“While it is important that patients who need urgent medical care continue to come forward, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases, we are asking people to continue to support us by using our NHS services wisely and to carefully consider whether they need our services now.”
Advice for Somerset Residents
By playing your part you can help ensure that key services remain available for those who genuinely need urgent healthcare support and advice, while also ensuring that people are directed to the right service for their healthcare needs.
For medical care and advice
For medical care and advice, people are advised to visit 111 online first before calling 111, leaving 999 for life-threatening medical or mental health emergencies.
Covid and Flu Vaccinations
COVID and flu remain prevalent in our communities, with an increasing number of cases in hospital as well. While in many cases people may not feel that unwell and will be able to recover at home, this is not the case for everyone. Vaccination continues to remain the best and most affordable form of protection for everyone; helping to prevent serious illness as well as keeping people healthy and well.
Advice for Parents
Parents can also find advice and guidance on common childhood illnesses on the HANDi App which is available for Android phones on Google Play or on the App store for iPhone and iPad. Advice and guidance can also be found online at NHS Somerset.
Getting loved ones home
While health and social care services in Somerset are working together to discharge patients who are medically fit to leave hospital, families are also being urged to support their loved ones to leave hospital so they can be more comfortable and recover more quickly at home.
The NHS across Somerset remains open for those who need urgent care. However, as staff manage the additional pressures, patients may have to wait longer to be seen. During this time, please be patient and kind.
