2 October 2009
Like NHS organisations across the UK, Epsom, St Helier and Sutton hospitals are getting ready for a possible 'surge' in patients suffering from swine flu this autumn.
Initially, the Department of Health predicted an increase in the number of people getting swine flu in October, several weeks after schools had re-opened after the summer holidays. However, the latest research now suggests that it might not occur until November, or even later still.
To help respond to the changing situation, the Trust has appointed two directors to jointly lead on planning for swine flu. Philippa Fieldhouse, Deputy Director of Operations and Julie Sobrattee, Deputy Director of Nursing, are in charge of the Trust's planning for the winter ahead - including both swine flu and seasonal flu.
Philippa and Julie are leading a team of staff from across the Trust as they prepare for every eventuality. Regular meetings bring together doctors, nurses, matrons and other frontline staff, as well as those who work behind the scenes to keep the hospitals running smoothly, such as cleaning, maintenance, logistics and human resources. They also include members of the Trust's microbiology team, who offer expert advice on how to prevent and contain the spread of the illness.
Philippa said: "Predicting the spread of viruses, like flu, isn't easy. So far, both nationally and locally, we haven't seen a surge of patients admitted to hospital with flu. But, like all acute hospitals, we're working closely with the Department of Health, the Health Protection Agency, our strategic health authority, NHS London, and other local NHS organisations to prepare for the weeks and months ahead.
"We've already put a raft of measures in place to make sure we are ready if there is an increase in the number of patients attending our hospitals with swine flu, including working out how certain areas could be used solely for suspected flu patients if necessary. We're also assessing how we would manage if there was an increase in the amount of staff off sick or at home caring for sick children or other relatives."
Julie emphasises the role that the public have to play, including following the basic principles of good respiratory and hand hygiene. She said "One of the simplest ways to prevent and control the spread of swine flu is to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible. People should also dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully and maintain good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water."
Combined, Julie and Philippa have worked in the NHS over 30 years, with nine of those spent at the Trust - something that they don't take for granted. Julie added: "It helps that we know the people we work with, and the hospitals, really well."
