NHS Lanarkshire has taken the decision to restrict visiting times at all NHS Lanarkshire hospitals.
Visiting times will be restricted to 3pm – 4pm and 7pm – 8pm at all NHS Lanarkshire hospitals and inpatient wards.
Visitors are also urged to only visit during these times if the visit is essential.
The change is to reduce the number of people visiting the hospitals each day.
Susan Friel, director of nursing for acute, said: “We are doing everything we can to minimise the risk of infection to our patients.
“As always, patient care is our top priority, and we would like to reassure everyone that this continues to be our focus at all times.
“We are asking friends and relatives to only visit patients at our hospitals if absolutely essential.
“If you really do need to visit, please only do so between 3pm – 4pm and 7pm – 8pm. This applies to weekdays and weekends; with an absolute maximum of two visitors per patient. Young children should not attend visiting during this period.
“For patients in critical care areas and those receiving end of life care, visitors can discuss visiting times locally with the senior charge nurse/nurse in charge of the ward.
“Members of the public should also not visit our hospitals if they have flu-like symptoms, cough, fever or a cold.
“We would like to thank all visitors for their co-operation, and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
The best way to protect yourself and others against coronavirus (COVID-19) is to wash your hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel, regularly throughout the day.
You should also be sure to catch any cough or sneeze in a tissue, bin it, and wash your hands.
People should also avoid touching surfaces and then their mouth or eyes.
Background
The latest numbers of test results are published at 2pm each day on the Scottish Government website.
For the latest health and travel advice, see NHS Inform’s coronavirus page. A free helpline has been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: 0800 028 2816.
If you have concerns about Coronavirus (COVID-19) and are worried about symptoms, you should call your GP or NHS 24 (111).
Anyone who has visited one of the affected areas (see www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus for an up-to-date list) and has a fever, cough or shortness of breath within 14 days of returning is advised to phone their GP or NHS 24 on 111 immediately. People should not go to their GP practice or other healthcare setting in person.
Updates on public health advice for coronavirus can be found on the NHS Inform website, and a free helpline has also been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: 0800 028 2816.
For the general public who are planning to travel abroad, guidance can be found on fitfortravel. Where a COVID-19 risk is identified then country pages will be updated.
