Hospitals in Surrey facing 'significant pressure'

NHS managers in Surrey say all the county's hospitals are under "significant pressure".

It comes as the health service across the country is dealing with an increased number of flu cases.

Patients are being asked to help by making sure they are using the correct service.

Only those with serious illnesses, accidents or life-threatening emergencies should attend A&E departments, the NHS says.

Surrey Heartlands Health and Care Partnership said those with less serious conditions should use the NHS 111 service, speak to their GP or local pharmacist, or use walk-in centres or attend a minor injuries unit.

Last week the East Surrey Hospital in Redhill declared a critical incident for three days, while four hospitals across Sussex are advising staff and visitors with respiratory issues to wear masks while in clinical areas.

In Kent those eligible for flu and Covid-19 vaccines are being urged to take them, as figures showed 70 flu patients spent Christmas in the county's hospitals.

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