Sussex NHS Trusts Urge Mask-Wearing As Flu Cases Surge

Sussex health leaders are urging people to wear masks and get vaccinated as flu cases rise sharply across the region and the rest of England.

East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust says it has introduced voluntary mask-wearing for patients, visitors and staff in “gateway areas”, including emergency departments, assessment units and any areas treating respiratory illnesses.

A spokesperson said:

“Not everyone is able to wear a mask, but doing so can reduce the spread of respiratory conditions between patients and to our staff.

"We appreciate everything our patients and communities can do to help.

"Masks won’t remove all risk, but they do reduce transmission and offer some protection.

"Getting your flu jab and washing your hands regularly further strengthens that protection.”

The call comes as national data shows an average of 2,660 patients a day were in hospital with flu during the first week of December — a 55% rise in just seven days.

NHS England says numbers have continued to climb, with no peak yet in sight.

Health leaders have warned the NHS could see 5,000 to 8,000 flu patients in hospital nationally by mid-December.

The highest figure ever recorded was 5,400.

Flu Arrives Early in Sussex and Beyond

According to the NHS, flu has arrived earlier than usual this winter due to a new mutated strain — H3N2 “subclade K” — which many people have little natural immunity to after several quieter flu seasons.

National Medical Director Prof Meghana Pandit said the NHS is facing an “extremely challenging few weeks”, with staff “being pushed to the limit” as cases increase.

West Sussex Leaders Urge People to Get Vaccinated

West Sussex County Council is also urging residents to take up the flu vaccine as soon as possible.

Cllr Bob Lanzer, cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said:

“Acting now will help protect you and your loved ones through the festive season and support our health and social care services.

"The vaccine takes around two weeks to become fully effective.”

"With flu cases rising and pressures mounting on local hospitals, Sussex residents are being encouraged to play their part by getting vaccinated, wearing masks in busy healthcare settings, and practising good hand hygiene."