VISITORS and patients attending appointments in clinics, wards, hospitals and GP Practices across Worcestershire must continue to wear face masks to protect other patients and visitors.
The call comes as the current Covid rate of infections in Redditch continues to climb, up to 462 per 100,000, an increase of 178 over the previous week.
Hospitals in the region are also reporting a rise in people in the late 20s and 30s ill with Covid on their wards.
It means that, despite the easing of restrictions from ‘Freedom Day’ visitors and patients attending appointments should continue to wear an approved face mask – which are provided on entrance – maintain social distancing where possible, and practice good hand hygiene.
Visiting restrictions also remain in place at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital, the Alexandra Hospital, Kidderminster Hospital and Treatment Centre, Hereford County Hospital as well as minor injury units.
The call comes as health chiefs urge adults who haven’t had their second Covid jab yet to do so as soon as possible to give themselves and their loved ones maximum protection.
People can book in online and get an earlier appointment, with staff introducing thousands more slots to ensure everyone can get jabbed after eight weeks.
Trish Thompson, director of Primary Care and Public Health Commissioning with NHS England said: “We know protection lasts for much longer with both doses.
“The vaccines have been through extensive testing and are safe, but one dose won’t give you full protection. The most effective protection comes from having both parts of the vaccine, so please do bring forward your appointment for your second jab.”
