Covid-19 restrictions on visitors to the Isle of Wight's hospital and NHS Trust sites will be eased tomorrow (Monday).

It means patients at St Mary’s Hospital will be able to have increased contact with family and loved ones, though a number of rules will still be in place.

Tough rules have been in place since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, though there was a slight easing in December.

From March 14, patients will be allowed a daily visitor for up to an hour, on all wards except the Intensive Care Unit.

Isle of Wight County Press: Anumol, Eunice and Kirk on St Mary's Hospital's Colwell Ward. (Photo: Isle of Wight NHS Trust).Anumol, Eunice and Kirk on St Mary's Hospital's Colwell Ward. (Photo: Isle of Wight NHS Trust).

Here is what you will need to do if you want to visit a patient at St Mary's Hospital

Visitors will need to pre-book with the ward and visit within the hours of 10am and 8pm.

You will be required to wear a face mask and must take a lateral flow test no earlier than 24 hours before your visit.

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust says there are exceptions in compassionate circumstances.

Juliet Pearce, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals said: "We are delighted to be able to invite more people back into our hospital to spend time with their loved ones, whilst ensuring that everyone stays safe.

"We know how difficult it has been for families, friends and loved ones not to be able to visit while restrictions have been in place to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, and we are grateful to everyone for their support and patience."  

What Covid-19 measures will remain in place at St Mary's Hospital and the Isle of Wight NHS Trust?

Not all Covid-19 will be removed from March 14. 

  • Face masks must be worn
  • Alcohol sanitation for hands
  • Visitors must maintain at least one metre from other patients and staff
  • Lateral flow test within 24 hours prior to visiting (appointments/visits will be rearranged if you test positive)

Juliet Pearce said: "We have all worked hard to achieve lower rates of infection, but Covid-19 continues to circulate in our community.

"Hands, face and space are still three important steps to follow, and we urge everyone to follow the provided advice and guidance to prevent our staff and patients from contracting this highly infectious disease.”

When shouldn't  I visit St Mary's Hospital and the Isle of Wight NHS Trust?

 

We are asked to stay away if: 

  • We test positive for Covid-19
  • If we have any symptoms
  • If we have been in contact in the last 10 days with a symptomatic or Covid-19 positive household
  • If we are self-isolating