Hospital visits to resume today after 12-week coronavirus suspension

The Health Department confirmed yesterday that it was lifting the ban on visitors, which came into force on 2 December as a result of a surge in coronavirus cases.

Visitors will be allowed for patients in the General Hospital and mental health facilities, as well as for parents-to-be attending antenatal scans.

Chief nurse Rose Naylor said: ‘With community transmission of Covid-19 decreasing, and with the robust infection control measures we have in place, we are pleased to welcome back visitors across Health and Community Services.’

Health Minister Richard Renouf said the news was ‘very welcome indeed’.

‘We know it has been difficult for patients and their friends and relatives, but it is vital that our health and community services remain safe for patients, visitors and staff,’ he said. ‘I urge visitors to adhere to the guidance set out for them.’

Patients will be asked to name a maximum of two relatives or friends for visits and, because of the continued need for patient, visitor and staff safety, only adults will be allowed to visit, a spokesperson said.

It was also confirmed that one named visitor may attend for each visitor session, with the arrangements set to be reviewed in two weeks.

Visiting times are 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm daily, except for exceptional circumstances – which include visits to patients receiving end-of-life care, or to children on paediatric wards.

Protocols for visitors will include pre-visit screening and the need to sign in and use sanitiser and PPE.

The screening will assess the individual’s travel history, check for symptoms and confirm any known exposure to Covid-19.

Meanwhile the Island’s vaccination programme moved forward to the next stage yesterday as Islanders aged 16 to 44 and classed as being at moderate risk were able to book vaccination appointments, one day earlier than scheduled.

Those who are at risk should receive a letter from their GP, which must be brought to the appointment. Bookings can be made online via the gov.je/vaccine webpage or by calling 0800 735 5566.

A total of almost 23,000 Islanders had received their first dose of Covid-19 vaccine by 14 February, with a further week’s total set to be published in the government’s weekly update due out tomorrow.

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