8 January 2026

We are seeing cases of norovirus, flu and other respiratory illnesses, so need your help to reduce the spread of infection within our services by:

  • Not visiting the hospital if you have symptoms of flu, norovirus or other respiratory infections.
    • Continue to seek medical attention if you need it.
    • If you have symptoms and are due to attend for an appointment, please contact that department to check whether this should be rearranged.
  • Washing your hands regularly with soap and water.
  • Being up to date with your flu and other vaccinations.

Mask wearing
Mask wearing was reintroduced at St Mary’s Hospital in December 2025 and remains in place. Staff are wearing masks in the following areas and visitors are encouraged to join us in wearing one too:

  • Emergency Department
  • Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC)
  • Acute Assessment Unit (AAU)
  • Ambulance frontline and patient transport staff when entering the hospital and visiting patients
  • Other areas when requested by staff or signage

Masks are available at the doors and visitors are welcome to wear them across the entire site if they feel more comfortable.

Visiting
We regularly review our infection prevention measures and introduce extra precautions when needed to reduce the spread of illness and safeguard those who may be more vulnerable to infection.

To protect staff and patients, visitors with respiratory or norovirus symptoms should not visit the hospital. We will also be encouraging people to reduce visiting to the areas below, unless it is necessary, and attend appointments/Emergency Department alone if you can, or limit to one supporter where possible. If you have any questions about visiting, please speak with the ward team ahead of attending:

  • Appley Ward
  • Colwell Ward

If you think you have had flu or norovirus please:

  • Stay home and rest until you feel better to help prevent spreading illness.
  • Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and treat aches and pains.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Keep warm. 

For further help and medical advice, please contact your GP, pharmacist, or visit NHS 111 online or by phone if you aren’t sure which is the best service for your needs.