Amid a fresh wave of Covid-19 cases, hospitals are urging those with symptoms to avoid visiting to curb the spread of the virus. While medical care remains accessible for those in need, visitors and others with Covid symptoms who do not require medical treatment are advised to stay away.
A spokesperson from University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust announced: “We are seeing a rise in cases of Covid-19 in London and patients testing positive in UCLH hospitals.”
The statement continued: “While we remain open to visitors, please do not visit if you are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19. If you do visit, please feel free to wear a mask if you feel more comfortable doing so.”
Further updates are expected by the end of the week as the situation is reviewed. Similarly, Royal Devon NHS issued a plea on X: “We’re seeing an increase in cases of Covid-19 in the community, so please help us to help you and your loved one by not visiting our hospitals if you are showing any symptoms of the virus. Thank you.”
This cautionary stance follows the reintroduction of face masks in some UK hospitals, aiming to halt the transmission of Covid. The summer has seen a spike in infections and hospitalisations due to new variants known as FLiRT and FLuQE, also referred to as KP, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a stark warning amidst the ongoing health crisis, advising: “If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as Covid-19, and you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities, you should avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible.”