Restrictions eased as warning issued

After a fortnight of restrictions, hospitals across Dumfries and Galloway have reopened for normal ward visiting in time for Christmas.

- SHARON LIPTROTT

Public health experts lifted the restrictions on Friday with the threat "reduced in the region sufficiently" to allow normal visiting at wards in Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, Midpark Hospital, Galloway Community Hospital or any cottage hospital.

Since December 5, only essential visiting has been allowed to help stop the spread of flu, norovirus and other respiratory diseases.

There is now no need to call to arrange visits in advance -but visitors will still have to wear masks at all times in clinical areas, and have been asked not to remove them when talking to patients in order to reduce the risk of passing on an infection.

Infectious diseases like flu and norovirus are particularly disruptive in inpatient settings such as hospitals and cottage hospitals. Even a small number of cases can mean restricted visiting or wards being closed to admissions to prevent further spread and protect vulnerable patients.