St Mary's Hospital has closed a number of inpatient wards to visitors and imposed tighter restrictions due to a rise in COVID patients.
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust says it has seen an increase in positive COVID-19 patients being treated at the hospital.
The Trust told Isle of Wight Radio that, as of yesterday (Wednesday), there were nine people in hospital with COVID-19.
It could not confirm how many COVID positive patients are at the hospital today.
Tougher restrictions mean several inpatient wards have completely closed to visitors. The Trust says it is to help reduce the number of people entering the hospital.
The wards that are not able to welcome visitors at this time are:
- Appley
- Luccombe
- Colwell
- Short Stay Unit
- Acute Assessment Unit
- Intensive Care Unit
- St Helens
Chief Nurse, Mary Aubrey said:
“We are still very much living with this virus and further restricting visitors is absolutely necessary to minimise the spread and help protect the most vulnerable in our care.
“Restricting visiting is not a decision we take lightly; patients look forward to visitors and contact with family is an important part of their recovery but we must continue to take this seriously and put the safety of our patients and our staff first.
“I know that it continues to be an unsettled time for us all, especially family and friends who will want to keep in touch with their loved ones whilst they are in hospital. If you do want to get a message, including photos, to a family member you can contact our Patient Experience Team at: iownt.message-to-loved-ones@
“All our staff are working incredibly hard to keep everyone safe. If you have a hospital appointment please attend alone unless in absolute exceptional circumstances. You will be asked to wear a mask before entering the building and to wait outside until it is time for your appointment if you arrive early.
“Please be respectful to our staff and do your bit by following the guidance when coming for your appointment. The measures we have put in place are for everyone's safety and we really need your support to be able to continue caring for people in a safe way."