NHS chiefs at Southport and Ormskirk hospitals say “the fast spread of the Covid-19 Omicron variant” is putting extra pressure on local health services as they asked local people for their support.
Figures published today revealed that the rate of Covid-91 infection in Sefton has risen from 397.2 per 100,000 in the week ending 11th November 2021 to a rate of 2,284.6 per 100,000 in the week ending 30th December 2021.
People are being urged to get vaccinated as the “strongest defence against Covid-19 and flu”, and to consult the NHS111 website first when you have an urgent health need.
Earlier tonight Prime Minister Boris Johnson ruled out imposing any further Covid-19 restrictions for the time being.
People in Southport, Formby and across West Lancashire are being asked to play their part supporting local NHS staff as they enter their busiest time of the year.
Dr Kate Clark, who is Executive Medical Director at Southport and Ormskirk hospitals, said the fast spread of the Covid-19 Omicron variant was creating extra pressure across the NHS.
“Winter is always a challenging time for our hospitals and this year is no exception.
“Our staff are working hard to maintain emergency care and urgent cancer treatments as well as routine and planned care.
“As we start the New Year, we need patients and their families to help us to help you. We need your support helping us maintain our hospital services and getting us all safely through the winter.”
This includes:
- Supporting the return home of patients who have completed their treatment and are ready to leave hospital. This will ensure there are beds available to support the anticipated surge in Covid-19 patients in the New Year
- Consulting the NHS111 website first when you have an urgent health need. It will point you to the most appropriate health care service, which may include A&E
- Getting vaccinated – this remains our strongest defence against Covid-19 and the impact of flu
Vaccinations in Sefton
Vaccines are currently given in 3 doses.
210,665 people had been given a first dose by the end of 3 January 2022.
196,312 people had been given a second dose by the end of 3 January 2022.
145,992 people had been given a booster or third dose by the end of 3 January 2022.
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
