Hospital Trust urges public to take action to stay well this winter

University Hospital Southampton (UHS) is calling on the public to take action this winter to protect themselves from seasonal illness and help ease pressure on hospital services.

The Trust has launched its ‘Winter Well’ campaign, designed to guide communities in making the right choices for themselves and their loved ones during the most challenging time of the year.

Nationally, the UK is bracing for what experts warn could be one of the most severe flu seasons in decades, with cases emerging earlier and spreading faster than usual. Alongside flu, surges in norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are adding further pressure to already stretched NHS services.

This early call to action is designed to help ease that strain, protect vulnerable patients and ensure hospital care remains available for those who need it most.

Five steps to stay well and support your hospital

1. Only attend the emergency department (ED) if your condition is urgent and poses a risk to life or limb. Please seek care from alternative healthcare providers whenever possible, allowing our emergency team to concentrate on delivering critical, life-saving treatment to those in greatest need.
2. Get a flu jab as soon as possible to protect yourself and your loved ones. This year, flu cases are already surging more than a month earlier than usual, with rates three times higher than the same time last year.
3. Avoid visiting hospital if unwell with symptoms of flu, sickness or respiratory illness, to protect vulnerable patients and staff.
4. Prepare for times when you may not feel your best by keeping basic supplies and remedies at home – seek timely medical advice from your GP, pharmacist, or NHS 111 to help avoid hospital admission.
5. Actively support hospital discharge plans when loved ones are ready to return home. Helping patients back to familiar surroundings not only benefits them but also frees up beds for those in urgent need of care.

Sarah Swanton, nurse and associate director of operations at UHS, oversees the safe running of the hospital by working with colleagues across every department to coordinate patient flow, respond to pressures, and support teams to keep patients safe and services running as effectively as possible.

She said: “As the winter season begins, we know those pressures intensify as we see cases of flu, norovirus, respiratory illness and other winter illnesses increase in our community – and the sickest or most vulnerable end up needing our often life saving care.

“Our staff continue to work with extraordinary dedication to care for patients, frequently under intense pressure. Like anyone, they may become unwell, and when they do, it places additional strain on our already stretched teams.”

To introduce the campaign, Ms.Swanton has recorded a short video message to the public reinforcing how small actions can make a big difference.

She added: “I want to reassure our community that we are doing everything possible to ensure operations proceed as scheduled, clinics run smoothly and appointments are not disrupted. We understand how much this matters to our patients and their families, and we remain committed to delivering the high-quality care they deserve."

Further steps include emphasising measures to protect both patients and staff from flu, norovirus and other infectious illnesses. Regular handwashing or the use of hand sanitiser, ensuring good ventilation by opening windows and doors, and wearing a mask when you have respiratory symptoms are all key measures that can help reduce the spread of infection within homes and care environments.

To support the public, the campaign will share regular updates and practical health advice through the Trust’s website, social media channels and local media. It will also notify the community when hospital services are under particular strain, ensuring transparency and helping people make informed choices about their care.

The Trust is also asking visitors to show kindness and civility when attending hospital, especially during times of increased pressure. Respectful behaviour towards staff, patients and fellow visitors helps create a safer and calmer environment for everyone.

For the latest information and health advice throughout the season, visit the Winter Well webpage and follow the Trust’s social media channels.