Staff at a north-east hospital have been forced to wear gloves and face masks to halt the spread of the flu virus.
Nurses at Fraserburgh Hospital have been wearing the protection for about a week after patients started reporting flu-like symptoms.
NHS Grampian confirmed the issue was “ongoing” and the use of personal protection equipment had been authorised for all staff.
However, a spokeswoman could not confirm which strain of the aggressive virus was affecting members of the public, claiming it would be in breach of patient confidentiality.
She said: “We can confirm two patients at Fraserburgh Hospital have tested positive for influenza.
They are responding well to treatment. As is normal in these situations, we have implemented an enhanced cleaning routine.
“As this virus is easily spread through droplet transmission, staff are wearing masks and gloves. This is to ensure their safety as well as the patients.”
Visitors are being allowed into the premises, but are warned to practice good hand hygiene.
The spokeswoman said: “They are also being reminded that if they are suffering any flu-like symptoms – for example a raised temperature or sore throat – they should avoid hospital-visiting until they’ve recovered.”
Local councillor Brian Topping said he was confident NHS Grampian would bring the situation under control.
He added: “Obviously, it’s disappointing to hear people are suffering. It’s quite often older people that are in Fraserburgh Hospital, and flu can have a big impact on them.
“But I am sure that NHS Grampian will have everything under control and procedures in place for the visitors to minimise its spread.
“Especially when you are an older person, it’s important these things are treated properly.”
Influenza can be caught at any time of t and typically presents with high temperatures, tiredness and dry, chesty coughs.
Headaches and general aches and pains are also common symptoms.
