THE main borough trust's hospital is experiencing an increase in patients and staff who are suffering from flu.

Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust (WWL), which operates the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary in Wigan, is asking patients experiencing flu-like symptoms to refrain from going to the hospital.

The trust is urging flu sufferers to contact their GP or calling NHS 111 while the hospital is coping with the surge in patients.

Director of nursing Pauline Law said: “WWL can confirm that the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary is experiencing an increased incidence of flu in both patients and staff.

“One ward will not be taking new admissions at this time, due to confirmed Influenza type A being identified.

“Measures are in place to help contain further spread of the infection.

“Visitors are asked not to visit if they have any flu-like symptoms or believe they may have been in contact with somebody who has been confirmed as having flu.”

NHS 111 is also available conline at 111.nhs.uk.