NHS restricts hospital patient visiting in Argyll and Bute

NHS Highland is asking people to visit hospital patients only if absolutely necessary – and to call in advance.

The measure was introduced on March 14 in a bid to reduce the risk of the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) to patients and staff.

A spokesperson for NHS Highland, which operates within Argyll and Bute, said: ‘This is a measure that will be reviewed weekly. If your visit is essential please contact the ward which will support you with arrangements. We are grateful to the public for your co-operation and understanding.

‘If you are visiting the hospital please ensure that you wash your hands or use hand sanitiser before you go on to the ward/department and as you leave the hospital.

‘Please do not enter the hospital if you are unwell.’

On Monday March 16 it was announced that only essential visitors would be allowed access to extra care housing facility Lorne Campbell Court. Those entering the building are asked to adhere to hand-washing advice.

A spokesperson for HCOne, which runs Kintyre Care Home, told the Courier: ‘HC-One has always had robust policies in place to both prepare for and prevent the spread of any infection, and we are employing these policies to deal with coronavirus.

‘In response to the growing UK coronavirus outbreak, we have a number of measures in place and have created a dedicated steering group. To help prevent the spread of infection, the most current and comprehensive advice is regularly issued to all HC-One homes, including Kintyre.

‘We have established hand-washing stations in the reception areas of all homes and installed additional prominent signage regarding hand-washing and other advice throughout.

‘To further minimise the risk to residents, we are restricting non-essential visitors from visiting our homes. This is a decision that has not been taken lightly. However, the health and safety of our residents is paramount and as a responsible care provider, we have to make decisions which are in the best interests of our residents.’

All updates about COVID-19 can be found on the Scottish Government website.