More than 60 people are being treated for Covid-19 in the Royal Alexandra Hospital as more people are admitted with the virus.
Figures obtained by the Express show that the RAH remains under mounting pressure as it cares for 63 covid positive patients.
The Paisley hospital confirmed two weeks ago how it had cancelled most elective operations as a result of mounting covid cases, increased demand and staff absence.
But in a statement to the Express today health bosses say they are hopeful the tide is turning.
Speaking a day after it was confirmed that hospital cases are rising across Scotland, a spokesman said: “The hospital continues to see an increase in Covid-19 patients, with 63 patients currently in the RAH as a result of Covid-19, having tested positive for the virus within the past 28 days.
“This, combined with other Covid-19 and emergency department pressures, means challenges remain.
“However, the number of Covid-19 cases in the community shows signs of slowing and we would are cautiously optimistic this will potentially translate to fewer Covid-19 hospitalisations in coming weeks.”
The rate of infection across Renfrewshire has gradually slowed down over the past fortnight,
It the week to September 19, the area recorded 1,085 new cases.
This means the rate of infection has fallen from 998 cases per 100,000 on September 9 to 604 on Sunday.
It is hoped the falling case rate will ease pressure on waiting times at the RAH’s A&E department particularly as lengthy delays have been increasing every week over the summer.
The NHSGGC spokesman added: “The RAH, as with all our hospitals, has been faced with significant pressures and it’s a testament to the experience and dedication of the staff that we’ve been able to continue delivering high-quality, person centred care throughout the pandemic and particularly over the past few weeks.
“We would like to remind the public to please come forward for their Covid-19 vaccinations, and to continue to follow the latest government guidance as these are essential in helping to minimise the impact of Covid-19 on our health service.
“We would also strongly encourage patients to consider how they use the health service and unless life-threatening, they should always first call NHS24 on 111, speak to their GP, or, consider community care such as a pharmacy.
“This will help us protect our emergency department for those who need urgent life-threatening care.”
The news comes as Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership confirms it is preparing to roll out its booster vaccines in care homes.
A third covid jab will be administered to the estimated 1,000 residents living in Renfrewshire’s 22 care homes from Tuesday.
Their care workers and all others who work in health and social care settings will also be offered a booster vaccine from next week.
Staff have been asked to book an appointment via an online system which opened for those in the Greater Glasgow area on Tuesday.
The booster vaccines will enhance the waning immunity given by the two original jabs, and prevent hospitals being overwhelmed with patients during the autumn and winter when other respiratory illnesses are common.
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