“Emergency Departments Reinstate Mask Mandates: A Proactive Step Amid Rising Flu Cases”

Individuals attending the emergency departments at acute hospitals in Cwm Taf Morgannwg are urged to wear masks to assist in alleviating the transmission of flu.

This appeal is made as the health board is dealing with an increase in patient arrivals at its emergency departments (EDs) suffering from the virus.

Masks are being provided near the entrances of all three EDs to enable patients and visitors to shield themselves against the virus and prevent passing it onto others.

Personnel within the EDs will also be donning masks.

Flu symptoms typically encompass fever, chills, headaches, and sore muscles, and it is common to experience a cough and sore throat simultaneously. Many people mistakenly believe flu is merely a severe cold, but when afflicted, it can be considerably worse, often requiring several days of bed rest.

While most individuals will recover from flu within a few weeks, it can lead to very severe complications in older individuals and those with pre-existing health issues. In extreme circumstances, it may even result in death.

Richard Hughes, Deputy Director of Nursing for CTMUHB, stated: “At this time of year, we frequently observe a rise in flu cases within our communities. Unfortunately, numerous individuals would have already faced disruptions to their Christmas due to the virus.

“When flu infiltrates and proliferates within a hospital setting, it can create substantial difficulties, posing a genuine risk to patient health and causing staff shortages, hence we must take every possible measure to contain the virus.

“This week, we have witnessed a significant influx of patients arriving at our crowded emergency departments, where the virus has the potential to spread rapidly. When an individual infected with flu coughs or sneezes, they can disseminate the virus through droplets. Utilizing a mask safeguards you against inhaling these droplets and can also hinder you from transmitting the virus to others if you are infected.

“We understand that wearing a mask may be uncomfortable for some, but we trust that everyone entering our emergency departments will undertake this small yet crucial action to safeguard themselves, our patients, and our staff, who are diligently working to ensure the well-being of loved ones.”

Effective today and until further notice, anyone visiting the emergency departments at Prince Charles Hospital, the Princess of Wales Hospital, and the Royal Glamorgan Hospital will be requested to wear a mask upon arrival.

Visitors are also encouraged to wash their hands regularly with soap and water or utilize hand sanitiser where available. If you are unwell with an illness such as flu or Norovirus (a winter gastrointestinal virus), please refrain from visiting a hospital unless it is absolutely essential.