Flu, respiratory virus, bronchitus and coronavirus are unwelcome guests this Christmas as the number of cases has spiralled in the last week putting extra pressure on the Medical Cenres across the region.
There were 1,647 cases of flu registered between December 18 and 24 and a 120% rise in the number of respiratory virus cases as 900 cases were registered in seven days. There was also a 40% rise in the numbers of cases of coronavirus, now deemed to be milder but extremely contagious, and a 10% increase in cases of bronchitus.
While this week´s statistics have yet to be published the concerm is that the numbers of flu and respiratory viruses will increase. The peak in the number of infections is predicted after the Christmas and New Year festivities are over.
The regional Health Service has introduced wearing masks in hospitals and and restriction on the number of visitors.
Anyone with symptoms of any of these conditions is advised to stay at home and, if it is necessary to go out, to wear masks.
