NHS Grampian provide Omicron update

NHS Grampian say "things are exceptionally tough" right now, but state there are "signs of hope" as the health board deals with Omicron

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 13th Jan 2022
Last updated 13th Jan 2022

NHS Grampian has provided an update on the current challenges the health board is facing.

Last week it was revealed that a 'major incident' could be declared as a result of increasing pressure on services.

But tonight in an update, despite saying things are still "exceptionally tough" the health board have indicated "signs of hope".

An NHS Grampian Spokeswoman said:

"Right now, across health and social care things are exceptionally tough. Nationally, there is mild optimism that omicron transmission is levelling off. Locally here in Grampian, there are signs of hope but we are slightly behind the national trajectory.

"In the last week, the number of Covid-19 patients in NHS Grampian hospitals increased by 32% including a 74% rise of patients in intensive care. Staff absence is still a real challenge, especially in care and social settings. These omicron difficulties continue on top of usual winter pressures, which can be testing on their own at the best of times.

"It is vital that we continue to do the right things individually because collectively it really is making a difference. One of the most important things to do is keep registering your lateral flow results - this is the best way for us to have more confidence that infection rates really are reducing.

"When the facts change, we change with them. Be assured that our Omicron Plan is poised and ready to be escalated if any of these trigger points become unmanageable. For now, we continue to keep a very close eye on the data."

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