Hospitals are dealing with a big spike in flu cases this winter
An elderly man receives a vaccine (credit NHS England)
North London NHS doctors are telling residents across Barnet, Enfield, Haringey, Islington and Camden that it’s not too late to get vaccinated from flu.
The current cold weather and surging cases of flu are creating huge levels of demand for local NHS services, including local hospitals.
Dr Josephine Sauvage, a local GP and medical director for North Central London Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “It’s not too late to get vaccinated for flu. We are seeing huge increases in cases of flu locally.
“Sadly, some of these are very serious and are leading to people being hospitalised.
“If you are aged 65 or over, if you’re pregnant, live in a care home, or have certain other health conditions, it’s really important to protect yourself because you are at greater risk of serious illness.”
Dr Sauvage highlighted the options available to local residents to get the help they need, as quickly as possible. “Your local GP practice is here to help. There are additional evening and weekend GP appointments being made available near you, although they might not be at your own practice.
“The 111 service – online and on the phone is there for people to access and get support – including for people suffering mental health crises.
“Your local pharmacist can provide expert advice and medicines for minor health conditions – and you don’t need an appointment.
“There are also local urgent treatment centres or walk-in centres which can help with urgent, but non-life threatening, injuries or illnesses. This might be sprains and strains, suspected broken bones, injuries, cuts and bruises, stomach pain, skin infections and rashes, or high temperatures.”
She added: “Despite the pressure, there are colleagues working hard across the local area to provide the care people need.
“We encourage local people to do what they can to take care of themselves, their loved ones, and know what their best options are, if they are needed.”
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