Hospital restricts visitors as cases rise

AUTHORITIES are taking steps to manage a surge in Covid-19 cases at a local hospital, with new restrictions put in place.

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service executive director of medical services Dr Don Mackie said Atherton Hospital was currently managing a higher-than-average number of patients – 10 – who have tested positive to Covid-19.

Mr Mackie said there was also a significant number of Atherton Hospital staff off sick after testing positive to the virus.

“We are currently not permitting visitors into our Covid care area at Atherton Hospital,” Dr Mackie said.

“This is a temporary measure while we manage the surge in Covid cases.

“We will, however, still allow visitors under compassionate grounds – for example, if the patient’s condition is deteriorating or they are in palliative care.”

Dr Mackie said the service was also restricting visitors in high-risk settings in all hospitals, such as emergency departments, where there is still one visitor per patient allowed.

“Please reconsider your visits to Atherton Hospital, if you can, in order to reduce the risk of infection to vulnerable patients and our staff,” he said.

“Due to Covid-19 still circulating in our community, visitors are still required to wear face masks at all of our hospitals, and observe hand and cough hygiene.”

There are currently 18 Covid patients requiring care across all Cairns and Hinterland hospitals, and five patients in the virtual ward.

“If you can, please do a RAT test before you plan to visit,” Dr Mackie said.