A Hertfordshire health chief has told people who are ill to wear face coverings when going out to help ease the strain on the NHS.
The call comes as flu and Covid cases have risen across the UK.
Data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that nationally, there was an average of 3,764 patients a day in hospital with flu in the last week of December.
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This is seven times higher than in November, when there were 520 cases on average, and comes as more patients are requiring critical care.
Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board chief executive, Dr Jane Halpin, said: “If you are unwell, try to stay at home if you can. Wear a face covering to help protect others if you have to go out, and avoid visiting people in hospital or anyone whose health is at risk."
“Flu, Covid and norovirus are all putting local health services under huge strain this January.”
Dr Halpin also urged people to get their Covid and flu vaccines.
She added: “Coming forward for your vaccinations is particularly important for those at higher risk and people who live with or care for them, to help avoid serious health complications.”
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