The health and wellbeing of patients and staff remains the top priority for the NHS with infection prevention and control (IPC) key to how we are handling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in our hospitals.
Evidence has shown that people infected with COVID-19 can have very mild or no respiratory symptoms (asymptomatic) and can transmit the virus to others without knowing, so it is important that we take immediate steps to stop the spread of coronavirus in hospitals.
Following an extensive evidence review, the national Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) has made recommendations on the use of coverings by visitors.
Patients coming to hospital for planned and outpatient care will need to wear face coverings when in hospitals to further reduce risk. Face coverings can be made of cloth and be reusable in line with government guidance on their use on public transport.
These new measures for patients will further help to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in hospital settings.
Face coverings can be homemade, made of cloth, and be reusable. If a patient or visitor does not have a face covering when they come to hospital, a face mask will be provided by the hospital on arrival.
Patient information and posters will be available at all entrances to the hospital to advise of the requirement for a face covering to be worn.