We are reintroducing mask wearing at St Mary’s Hospital and other Trust buildings following a rise in COVID-19 cases.
From Friday 8 July 2022, all patients, staff, and visitors will be asked to wear a face mask in all public and clinical areas.
Karen Robinson, Associate Director of Nursing, Deputy Director of Infection Prevention and Control for Isle of Wight NHS Trust said: “The safety of our patients, staff and the wider community remains our top priority.
“As a result of increasing cases in the community and in hospital we are reintroducing mask wearing at all Trust sites to help reduce the rate of transmission.”
We recently followed national guidance and relaxed COVID-19 precautions, including the mandatory wearing of face masks.
However, the latest Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5 are highly transmissible, so steps are being taken to help reduce the spread of infection to protect our vulnerable patients, staff and the services provided.
We will continue to monitor the situation and take further action if required.
There are things that the public can do to help:
- Wear a mask, unless you are exempt, and use hand gel when visiting the hospital or other Trust sites
- Stay away from hospital if you have symptoms, or are a contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
- Attend appointments on your own, wherever possible
- Choose the right service if you are unwell and need medical advice – consider a pharmacy, visiting NHS 111 online or contacting your GP
- If it is an emergency, always call 999
We would like to thank everyone for their support, and to be assured that the COVID-19 measures will be regularly reviewed.
