Scotland's Health Secretary Neil Gray has commended the NHS for its unwavering resolve and resilience in the face of an extraordinary surge in Influenza A cases.
The number of emergency hospital admissions testing positive for flu has surpassed the peak of the winter of 2022/23, highlighting the immense pressure on the healthcare system.
Following a series of meetings with First Minister John Swinney, health boards, the Scottish Ambulance Service, Public Health Scotland, and NHS 24, Gray praised the NHS response to these increased pressures in a statement to parliament. He also expressed gratitude to the public for adhering to guidance on accessing services and helping to reduce the spread of infections.
As part of a statement, Gray commented:
“The resilience and determination shown by staff in the face of pressures across the health and care sector is inspiring.
“Every part of our health service has gone above and beyond to serve the country during the hardest months of the year.
“I’d like to thank the ambulance service staff for their sacrifice and devotion to their task, staying at work beyond the end of their shift as they wait to turn around at hospitals.
“I’d also like to thank social care staff doing extra shifts to make up for staff being off sick with flu and GPs working at the weekends to offer appointments and bolster the resilience of the entire system.”
The Secretary also emphasised the importance of these measures in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of Scotland's health and social care system during this challenging period. The dedication of the healthcare workforce and the cooperation of the public are vital in navigating this surge in flu cases.
Work to maintain services throughout the winter comes following an earlier publication date for the 2024-25 Winter Preparedness plan, with COSLA and the Scottish Government releasing it in September 2024. Further funding has also been included in the draft Scottish Budget, with £100 million being committed to improving patient flow.
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