A SHARP rise in Covid cases has led to difficulties at St Mary's Hospital, including the current critical incident.

Since the end of September when there were 12 Covid patients being cared for, the number has jumped to more than 40.

According to the latest available government data, there were 22 Covid patients in St Mary's on October 5, including two on ventilators. Seven days previously, there had been 12 Covid patients.

However, following an enquiry by the County Press, the hospital said they now have more than 40 Covid patients, and they are anticipating a rise in that number.

Juliet Pearce, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals, said: "We are seeing a rise in Covid cases on the Island and the number of people with Covid is increasing rapidly.

"There are currently more than 40 inpatients across our services who have tested positive and we expect those numbers to continue rise.  

"Although these numbers are high, as a result of the vaccine programme, we are seeing less severe symptoms than at the height of the pandemic.  

“I would urge all Islanders to help to keep themselves and those around them as safe as possible by coming forward to have both the Covid booster and flu vaccine as soon as they are eligible.

We are in the process of rolling out these vaccinations to our own staff and with the pressure that the Island’s healthcare system is under it’s important that we all play our part to protect ourselves and our Island population as we head into the winter months.

“You may be contacted by your GP practice to get vaccinated or you can choose to book online or call 119 for free.”

Earlier this week, St Mary's declared a critical incident and among the problems is rising Covid cases.

Steve Parker, medical director, said at the time: "We are seeing a rise in Covid cases on the Island, and the number of people in our hospital with Covid is increasing rapidly to levels beyond what we saw during the pandemic."

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Covid-19 Vaccination Helpline can help you with finding your nearest clinics, getting information in other languages such as Polish, Arabic, Chinese, Bengali and more, as well as sharing the latest information on eligibility. 

You can contact the helpline on 0300 561 0018 from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and 9am to 1pm at weekends.