News
Flu Cases Surge Across Forth Valley - What You Need To Know
We are currently seeing a sharp and early rise in seasonal flu across the Forth Valley area, which is having a significant impact on local healthcare services. This increase in cases is putting extra pressure on GP practices and hospitals, and staff shortages due to illness are adding to the challenge. To help keep our service sustainable and protect vulnerable patients, we kindly ask for your support.
Please Wear a Face Mask if You Have Respiratory Symptoms
If you are attending the practice and have symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, or other respiratory issues, please wear a face mask. Masks will help reduce the risk of spreading flu and other infections to fellow patients and our staff. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe. Masks are available from Practice reception on arrival.
Why Are We Taking These Measures?
Flu is circulating widely and can spread easily, even from people with mild symptoms. NHS Forth Valley has advised all healthcare settings to reinforce infection control measures, including encouraging the use of Fluid Resistance Surgical Masks.
What to Do If You Suspect You Have Flu
Most flu cases can be managed at home. NHS guidance recommends:
- Stay at home and rest until you feel better.
- Keep warm and drink plenty of fluids.
- Use over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease symptoms.
- Avoid visiting healthcare settings unless absolutely necessary, as this can spread infection to vulnerable patients.
- Do not attend A&E with flu symptoms unless you have severe complications such as chest pain or breathing difficulties.
For more in-depth information advice on managing flu and when to seek help, please visit Flu | NHS inform.
If you are in a high-risk group (aged 65+, pregnant, have a long-term health condition, or a weakened immune system) and your symptoms worsen or do not improve after 7 days, please contact the Practice by telephone in the first instance. If we are closed, please contact NHS 24 via 111, and in the event of an emergency, please call 999.
How to Minimise the Spread
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Dispose of tissues immediately.
- Keep indoor spaces well-ventilated.
- Wear a mask if you need to go out while unwell.
Vaccination – Your Best Protection
Flu vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and others. If you are eligible and haven’t yet had your flu jab, please book an appointment or attend a local drop-in clinic. Details are available on the NHS Forth Valley – Winter Vaccines website.
Thank you for helping us keep our community safe and our services running during this challenging time.
Be Ready: Holiday Periods and Practice Closure
Public holidays mean our surgery hours will change. To make sure you stay well and can access care when we’re closed, follow these simple steps:
1. Check Your Medication in Advance
Running out of regular medication is the most common issue during holidays.
- Plan Ahead: Review your medication supply well before the holiday.
- Order Early: If you need a repeat prescription, request it at least 7 days before the holiday begins. This allows us to process your request and gives your pharmacy time to prepare.
- How to Order: Use our online services, leave a voicemail on the Practice prescription line or pop in with your repeat slip.
2. Use NHS Pharmacy First Scotland
Your local pharmacist is a medicines expert and can help with many minor illnesses. Through NHS Pharmacy First Scotland, you can get advice and treatment without seeing a GP.
For conditions like sore throat, earache, cold sores, or urinary tract infections (UTIs), visit your pharmacy first. If they can’t treat you, they’ll direct you to the right service.
Tip: Visit Pharmacies | NHS Inform to check opening times before you attend.
3. Know Who to Contact When We’re Closed
If you become unwell while the surgery is shut, here’s what to do:
- NHS Inform: Visit Symptoms and self-help | NHS inform for trusted health advice and self-help guides.
- Call 111 (NHS 24): For urgent issues that aren’t life-threatening, or if you need help when your GP or dentist is closed.
- Call 999: For emergencies only—such as severe bleeding, chest pain, or breathing difficulties.
Page created: 26 September 2025