West London hospital trust once eye of the coronavirus storm recorded no deaths in August from Covid-19
By Julia Gregory, Local Democracy Reporter
There have been no deaths at a west London health trust – which was at one point in the eye of the coronavirus storm – since the beginning of August.
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust was caring for 11 people last week who tested positive for the virus when they were admitted to hospital, according to its latest figures.
Thankfully none of the patients needed to be cared for on ventilators in intensive care.
The first patient in the trust’s care died from coronavirus on March 11.
Between March and August 2, 429 patients died from Covid-19 – just over half the deaths at the trust’s hospitals.
It averaged at 24 deaths a week, which is lower than the trust’s “normal” average of 30 to 35 a week.
And 1,499 patients who had the virus were treated successfully and discharged by the end of August. Some will be getting aftercare elsewhere as they recover from the serious illness.
The trust runs Charing Cross, St Mary’s and Hammersmith hospitals which have all cared for patients with coronavirus.
It is also responsible for the Western Eye Hospital and Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea hospital for expectant mums.
Professor Julian Redhead, the medical director of Imperial who also played a leading role in the response to the virus in North West London, urged patients to discuss any concerns with staff.
“West London was one of the hardest-hit regions in London and certainly in the country,” he said.
“Hospitals have made huge changes to keep patients and staff safe to ensure they get the care at the right time.”
Sarah Brice, a consultant at Charing Cross Hospital, who cares for older patients, explained how there were separate areas for people with coronavirus and for those without.
And all people who are admitted to the hospital are tested for the virus. Staff wear additional protective equipment when caring with those diagnosed with coronavirus.
Pictured top: Charing Cross Hospital
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