Two wards closed and visiting restrictions in place to “minimise the risk” of flu spreading at Wrexham Maelor Hospital

Two wards at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital are closed to new admissions and several wards have patients in isolation following an increase in the cases of flu.

On Friday Wrexham.com reported that visiting restrictions had been put in place at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital after there had been an increase in the number of patients being admitted with the virus.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board say that hospitals across north Wales have seen an increase in patients being admitted with the flu, however it is only the Wrexham Maelor which has visiting restrictions in place at present.

Two wards at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital are currently closed to new admissions, and a further four wards with a small number of patients in isolation.

As a result the health board are asking patients to help prevent the spread of flu and only essential visits will be allowed at the Maelor at this time.

The restrictions have been put in place to help minimise the risk of flu spreading further in the hospital and to protect patients and staff.

Speaking today, a spokesperson for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “Please do not visit hospital if you are or have been unwell with flu-like symptoms in the last seven days, unless it is an emergency.

“Hospitals in North Wales have seen a rise in the number of people being admitted with flu and Wrexham Maelor Hospital has put visiting restrictions put in place to minimise the risk of it spreading to protect patients and staff.

“We are asking the public to help us prevent flu spreading and only essential visits will be allowed at Wrexham Maelor Hospital at this time.

“Visitors to all of our hospitals should follow any advice notices and guidance both for their own protection and to help prevent the spread of infection.

“Flu is circulating in communities throughout North Wales and this action will help us reduce the spread of infection and keep our patients and staff safe this winter.

“You can check your symptoms out at www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/selfassessments/

“You can also get expert advice on the best way to get care from NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 or on their website at www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk.”