Public Health Wales urges caution as winter viruses surge
As festive celebrations gather pace, Public Health Wales is urging the public to adopt simple health behaviours to prevent the spread of seasonal illnesses, which can have serious consequences for vulnerable individuals.
Flu, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and norovirus (commonly called the winter vomiting bug) are circulating at high levels in Wales.
While most people recover from these illnesses within days or weeks, they can pose significant risks to young babies, older adults, and those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems.
According to Public Health Wales, flu hospitalisations have doubled in the last week, with 99 adults admitted in the seven days leading up to 1 December.
Flu can lead to severe secondary bacterial infections in some cases, while RSV is known to cause bronchiolitis in infants and pneumonia in older adults.
Wendi Shepherd, Deputy Director in Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said:
“The pre-Christmas period is often very busy with social engagements, but it does coincide with the peak time of year for several seasonal winter viruses that can cause vulnerable people to become extremely unwell and need hospital treatment.
“Taking a few simple steps and thinking of those around you can make a big difference in ensuring that everyone enjoys the festive season as much as possible, and helps to relieve pressure on our hospital services.”
Protecting yourself and others
Public Health Wales is encouraging everyone to follow these steps to reduce virus transmission:
- Wash your hands with soap and water: Hand sanitiser is effective against many viruses but not norovirus, making soap and water the best choice.
- Catch it, bin it, kill it: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, dispose of it, and clean frequently touched surfaces. If no tissue is available, sneeze into your elbow.
- Get vaccinated: If eligible, ensure you’re up to date on your flu and Covid-19 vaccinations. It’s not too late to book, even if you’ve missed your appointment.
- Ventilate indoor spaces: Let fresh air circulate when meeting others indoors to reduce the concentration of virus particles.
- Stay home if unwell: Avoid attending gatherings if you are unwell to protect those who may be at greater risk of severe illness.
The cost of sharing germs
While the festive season is a time for sharing joy, experts warn that sharing germs could lead to serious illness among vulnerable family members and friends.
The measures being encouraged not only protect individuals but also reduce pressure on hospitals during a period of high demand.
For further advice, including vaccine eligibility, visit the Public Health Wales website.
