Mask compulsory at Amiens University Hospital in the face of winter viruses

This Friday, December 20, the Amiens-Picardie University Hospital announces a significant measure: wearing a mask becomes compulsory again for all visitors and caregivers. Between flu, Covid-19 and bronchiolitis, health authorities are worried about the rise in cases at the end of the year.

A triple health threat: flu, Covid-19 and bronchiolitis

At the heart of Hauts-de-Francethe Amiens hospital is facing a delicate situation as winter is in full swing. Several respiratory viruses, including fluthe bronchiolitis and the Covid-19are actively circulating, pushing hospital authorities to reinstate one of the most emblematic measures of the pandemic: wearing a mask. The observation is clear:

• A strong increase in flu cases is observed in all age groups, both in town and in hospital. Four French regions, including Hauts-de-France, have already entered the epidemic phase.
• Indicators linked to bronchiolitis continue to climb, placing twelve regions in active epidemic.
• On the other hand, the cases of Covid-19 remain generally stable, although the virus continues to represent a risk for the most vulnerable populations.

To respond to this worrying dynamic, the University Hospital is now applying strict measures to protect patients, caregivers and companions.

Who is affected by the compulsory wearing of a mask at Amiens University Hospital?

From now on, anyone entering areas where patients circulate must wear a surgical mask. Are concerned:

• THE healthcare professionals working in all sectors of care, including consultations and day hospitals.
• THE hospitalized patientsas soon as they leave their room, as well as those in ambulatory when they are waiting or moving around the establishment.
• THE visitors and companions over 6 years old.
• THE external stakeholderslike the paramedicshealth students or volunteers in direct contact with patients.

To facilitate the application of these rules, masks will be made available free of charge if necessary. This return to reinforced measures is also accompanied by an insistence on respecting other barrier gestures: regular hand washing, social distancing and wearing a mask as soon as respiratory symptoms appear.

The importance of vaccination to counter winter viruses

In addition to barrier gestures, vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to limit the impact of winter epidemics. In collaboration with theHauts-de-France Regional Health Agency and Health Insurance, health authorities remind that there is still time to be vaccinated against flu and the Covid-19particularly in view of family gatherings for the end of year holidays.

Who is priority for vaccination?

The campaign mainly targets vulnerable people, including:

• THE seniors aged 65 and over,
• People affected by chronic diseases (like diabetes or heart disease),
• People immunocompromised,
• Pregnant women,
• People in a situation ofsevere obesity.

Vaccination is also recommended for those close to them and healthcare professionals. Note that the flu vaccine is 100% covered for targeted people, just like the Covid-19 vaccine for the entire population.

Prepare for the holidays and winter safely

A few days before Christmas, health authorities are calling for increased vigilance. In addition to vaccines, it is strongly recommended to rigorously apply the barrier gestures to limit contamination. These simple gestures, like wash your hands frequently, sneeze into your elbow et ventilate closed spaces regularlyremain essential to curb the spread of viruses.

While the Hauts-de-France region has insufficient vaccination coverage – only one in three people at risk has been vaccinated against the flu – health professionals are encouraging everyone to take part in the collective effort. Double vaccination (flu and Covid-19) can even be done in a single visit, for reinforced protection throughout the winter.