Publish date: 12 December 2025
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (MCHFT) is calling on the local community to take extra precautions this winter as flu cases and wider seasonal pressures continue to rise sharply across the region.
Between October and 9 December this year, the Trust has seen 203 confirmed flu cases, compared with 42 at the same point last year. This steep increase mirrors the national picture, where hospitals across the country are experiencing rapidly growing numbers of flu-related admissions.
Alongside flu, other respiratory and winter viruses are contributing to increased demand on beds, and sustained pressure on urgent and emergency care services.
Scott Malton, Chief Nursing Officer at Mid Cheshire Hospitals said: “We are seeing a level of winter illness that is arriving earlier and rising faster than in previous years. This is impacting our hospitals, our teams, and the people we care for. Simple steps such as getting your flu vaccination, wearing a face mask where advised, and practising good hand hygiene can make a significant difference to keeping yourself and others safe. We are asking our communities to work with us so we can protect the most vulnerable and keep services running safely.”
To help reduce the spread of infection, the Trust has recently reintroduced face mask guidance where rising numbers of flu cases pose an increased risk. Patients and visitors are strongly urged to wear a face mask in GP Out of Hours, Emergency Department and Ward 16 and 17 at Leighton Hospital. Optional masks are also available at main entrances for anyone who wishes to use one in other parts of the hospital.
The Trust will continue to review mask guidance in line with regional and national data and ease measures as soon as it is safe to do so.
A&E at Leighton Hospital remains extremely busy. Residents are reminded to only attend A&E for genuine emergencies, critical illnesses, or life-threatening conditions.
If someone becomes unwell and is unsure where to go, NHS 111 online or by phone remains the quickest way to get clear advice and be directed to the right service – including GP practices, pharmacies, or self-care at home. Patients should continue to come forward for emergency care when it is required.
How the public can help this winter
Mid Cheshire Hospitals is urging the community to take the following steps:
- Get your flu jab if you are eligible – vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and helps protect those around you.
- Wear a face mask in areas where requested, and consider doing so in crowded clinical settings.
- Practise good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water and using hand sanitiser on arrival and departure from hospital sites.
- Use NHS 111 for urgent but non-life-threatening health concerns, so you can be directed to the most appropriate care.
- Attend planned appointments as normal unless contacted by the Trust.
Scott added: “These small actions, taken together, help us protect patients, reduce transmission of flu and other respiratory viruses, and ensure our hospitals can continue providing care for the people who need it most.”
