STARK warnings about the pressure on the NHS have been issued with more than 180 Covid patients in hospital in Southampton.

University Hospital Southampton Trust said a 'significant' number of its staff are off sick - making matters worse.

The Director of public health at Southampton City Council, Dr Debbie Chase, has joined calls urging people to protect themselves and the health service.

She said: "Our NHS is facing increasing pressure from the rising number of admissions from a range of illnesses including COVID-19.

"Vaccinations remain our most important defence, so I encourage everyone to come forward for their first, second or booster Covid-19 vaccinations, as well as the flu jab when it is offered."

University Hospital Southampton Trust was caring for 182 coronavirus patients in the hospital as of Tuesday, October 18.

This was up by 19 cases on the same day the previous week.

The number of beds at the hospital occupied by people who tested positive for Covid-19 more than doubled in the last four weeks – 28 days ago, there were 64.

A spokesperson from the hospital said: "Since the start of the pandemic and throughout subsequent waves, our priority at University Hospital Southampton has always been to protect our staff, protect our vulnerable patients and protect the services we provide.

“As cases continue to rise this is affecting our staffing with a significant number of absences due to Covid-19-related illness.

“This is compounding the pressures we are currently seeing across our hospital; the ongoing issues we have with patients who are medically fit to leave but are unable to be discharged and our emergency department once again seeing unprecedented demand.

“To that end, we are asking members of the community to help us by thinking about the best way to get the treatment they need."

People are being urged to wash their hands, ventilate areas, and wear face coverings in crowded places.

Residents are also being encouraged to get their first, second or booster Covid vaccine along with a flu jab before winter.

The Trust is offering wellbeing and support services for its staff, and is supporting them through the cost of living of crisis.

This includes helping with travel costs, food and drink, childcare, and access to discounts and financial advice.

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