Russells Hall Hospital restricts visiting as Covid-19 infections surge
Dudley's Russells Hall Hospital has become the latest in the Black Country to restrict visitors amidst rising Covid-19 cases.
It comes after Sandwell General Hospital banned visitors this week, a move replicated by County Hospital in Stafford.
Russells Hall announced it was restricting visitors to all general wards and departments in the light of the Omicron variant propelling higher rates of virus transmission.
There will be exceptions for patients receiving end-of-life care and for the most vulnerable patients, such as patients with dementia.
Paediatrics, neonatal and maternity wards will also continue to allow parents and partners to visit as part of the current arrangement.
Chief executive Diane Wake said: “The decision to restrict visiting has been made to keep patients and staff safe.
“I know this is disappointing news but the increasing cases of Covid-19 across the Dudley borough has left us with no other choice. These arrangements will be reviewed at the end of January.”
The hospital is encouraging people to discuss visits with the nurse in charge of the ward they wish to visit.
