Aneurin Bevan UHB issues new plea to community

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has issued a new plea to the community as Covid-19 spread continues.

On the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board Facebook page, a plea from the health board starts with:

We have the highest number of Covid-19 patients since the outbreak began. This is putting a huge strain on our health care services.

This comes as no surprise following recent news from Wales Chief Medical Officer that those who are clinically extremely vulnerable and were previously ‘shielding’ should no longer attend work or school outside the home. Read more on this here.

The plea from ABUHB continues:

Covid-19 is spreading faster and wider in Wales than at any point in this pandemic. Coupled with the threat of the new, mutated strain, our chances of catching and spreading the virus increase.

Please help stop the spread – keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Our hospitals are under extreme pressure. If you become unwell, please think carefully about the services you choose.

If you are unwell and unsure what to do, you can check your symptoms at 111.wales.nhs.uk, or for advice call NHS 111.

With the early opening of The Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board staff have been met with significant pressures due to a large intake of patients at the hospital.

The health board has said that you should only attend The Grange University Hospital if you have a life-threatening illness or serious injury, such as:

• Severe breathing difficulties
• Severe pain or bleeding
• Chest pain or a suspected stroke
• Serious trauma injuries (eg. from a car crash)

However, if you have a less serious injury then you should visit a Minor Injury Unit in Newport, Abergavenny, Ystrad Mynach or Ebbw Vale.

Further details of all hospital services can be found on the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board website at www.abuhb.nhs.wales/clinical-futures/clinical-futures-information-booklet