NHS Patients, staff and visitors must continue to wear face coverings in healthcare settings

posted by: Jonathan Shaw

COVID-19 restrictions will end in many settings in England from Monday. However, Public Health England’s infection prevention control guidelines, including mask wearing, and hospital visiting guidance will remain in place for all staff and visitors.

Staff, patients and visitors will be expected to continue to follow social distancing rules when visiting any care setting, as well as using face coverings, masks and other personal protection equipment. NHS visitor guidance will stay in place across all health services including hospitals, GP practices, dental practices, optometrists and pharmacies to ensure patients and staff are protected. This includes all Devon Sexual Health clinics.

Read the full national update here, including a statement from Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for England.

Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, Chair of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges said: “It is absolutely right that basic infection prevention and control measures stay in place in healthcare settings. Simple steps such as wearing a face mask and keeping a safe distance away from others are a minor inconvenience but could have a profound positive impact when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable and I strongly support the chief nurse with this clear reminder.”