15 February 2018

Hospital’s innovative flu test is helping to reduce spread of flu in Sheffield


Sheffield Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust was one of the first Trusts in the NHS to use an innovative flu test to diagnose patients admitted into hospital.

In its second year running, with more tests being done than ever before, the rapid test is improving patient care and helping staff prevent the spread of flu this winter.
 


The rapid test takes only 15 minutes, ensuring patients get their result quickly, receive the correct treatment and are cared for in isolation to prevent the spread of the virus.

Without rapid testing patients could wait 1-2 days for a flu result to be confirmed.

Cariad Evans, Consultant in Virology said: “Having a rapid test result has meant patients are receiving the treatment they need quicker and they are staying in hospital for a shorter period of time. The quick diagnosis also ensures we are protecting other patients and staff from getting flu, by putting measures in place to prevent the virus spreading.”

“Many people with flu will recover quickly and not need any hospital care. They feel unwell for around 5 days and can treat themselves at home with advice from a local pharmacist.”


 



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