Visitors to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge are being told to wear masks amid a ‘quad-demic’ of winter illnesses.
The hospital has also reduced visiting hours for all adult inpatient wards and patients in the A&E are restricted to one visitor at a time.
The restrictions come following an increase in the number of cases of winter illnesses
The restrictions come following an increase in the number of cases of flu, norovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Covid-19 in the hospital.
“We understand how important it is for our patients to be supported by loved ones while they are in our care. We are committed to enabling visiting wherever possible in our hospitals,” a spokesperson for Cambridge University Hospitals Trust said.
Visiting hours for all inpatient areas at Addenbrooke’s have been reduced to between 3pm and 6pm. Additional visiting may be allowed on compassionate grounds, and this should be discussed directly with the ward.
Only two parents/carers or a parent/carer and a support person are permitted to the inpatient paediatric areas, PICU and NICU. However, one of those will be the resident parent/carer.
A further one visitor that may rotate from the hours of 3pm to 6pm is also permitted. Children under the age of 12 will not be allowed in the inpatient paediatric areas.
For outpatient areas, one parent/carer is permitted and no children under 12 , unless no other option.
Visitors are also reminded not to visit the hospital if they are feeling unwell or have any symptoms of infection.
NHS national medical director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, said on Tuesday (31 December): “The winter flu season has not only hit the NHS early this year, but it is potentially on track to be one of the worst we have ever seen, as the ‘quad-demic’ continues to increase pressure across services.
“Frontline NHS staff are currently under significant pressure – and as families and friends have gathered over the festive period and to celebrate the new year, we expect the peak of seasonal viruses is yet to come.
“Firstly, I’d like to thank NHS staff – despite huge demand, they continue to work tirelessly to keep patients safe and provide them with the best possible care.
“And secondly I would like to remind the public that community services like GPs and pharmacies are open as usual for help and advice today and on Thursday and Friday.
“Anyone who needs medical support should continue to use services as normal – 999 and A&E only in an emergency, and for other urgent health needs, use NHS 111 or 111 online.”