The number of people in hospital with flu in Grampian has more than doubled in the last week – with admissions to Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital the highest on record.
At RACH one-in-six occupied beds is taken by a patient with flu – with other respiratory viruses, including RSV, also hospitalising younger people.
In total 10 youngsters are currently hospitalised with the influenza virus - more than triple than at the same time last year.
Seven children were admitted in a 24 hour period between Tuesday and Wednesday, with the peak in terms of admissions not expected to be reached yet.
The hospital has already implemented mask wearing for staff in clinical areas and is asking visitors not to attend if they are showing any signs of respiratory illness.
Across Grampian the number of patients in hospital has doubled, with 47 people now in hospital with the virus compared to 19 a week ago – the equivalent of almost three wards worth of beds.
At the health board’s biggest hospital, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, one in 32 beds is currently occupied with a flu patients.
Public health consultant, Mr Chris Littlejohn said: “Flu is no joke, people lose their lives to it every year. Anyone eligible for a free 'flu vaccination on the NHS is encouraged to take up the offer.
“There is still time to get yourself or your child vaccinated. We have vaccine available in our centres for those who are eligible. Public Health Scotland has released data today show just how effective this year’s vaccine is. Children are 78% less likely to be hospitalised if they have had the jab.
“Vaccination clinics are now offering drop-ins, as well as appointments, so anyone eligible who hasn't had the jab yet will be made very welcome.”
Chris added that flu numbers usually peak “sometime between early January and mid-February” meaning there is potential for the number of people hospitalised, and ill in the community, to grow further in the coming days and weeks.
“We’re continuing to see a sharp week on week rise in 'flu cases, trending towards what we’d consider a high rate for this time of year.
“Across Grampian we currently we have the equivalent of almost three wards filled with flu patients across the region – and there are other respiratory viruses like RSV particularly affecting younger children.”
Mr Littlejohn said that vaccines “really are the first line of defence” but there is more members of the public can do to protect themselves and their loved ones.
“We need people to make sure they are looking after themselves and each other, as much as possible,” he said.
“Do not come to any hospital to visit friends or family if you are feeling ill, even if you think ‘it’s just a sniffle’. What is a sniffle to you, might be a life-threatening flu infection to a vulnerable person.
“Practice good hand hygiene, where possible ensure there is ventilation, avoid crowds, and ensure good coughing and sneezing etiquette.
“If you do feel unwell, stay at home and self-isolate until you feel better.
“We need employers to play their part too and not encourage workers to attend when ill.”
For more information on winter vaccines visit nhsinform.scot/winter-vaccines
For information on self-help with flu-like illness visit nhsinform.scot/self-help-guides/self-help-guide-flu-like-illness