Face mask rules relaxed at North Wales hospitals
Patients, visitors and staff are no longer being routinely asked to wear face masks at hospitals across North Wales following a reduction in flu and respiratory illness cases.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said its teams had seen a sustained fall in the number of patients testing positive for flu in recent days.
The health board said the virus was still circulating in the community and urged the public to continue taking steps to limit its spread.
Patients, visitors and staff can still choose to wear a face mask if they wish, and masks will continue to be available at hospital entrances and in clinical areas.
Some areas treating patients with weaker immune systems may still ask people to wear masks, based on local risk assessments.
Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery Angela Wood said: “This year’s flu season started early, with the number of patients with flu here in North Wales higher than usual during October and November and continuing to increase during the first few weeks of December.
“Introducing face masks at our hospitals has helped to limit the spread of illness and protected vulnerable patients in our care. I would like to thank our patients, their families and loved ones, and all our staff for their support over recent weeks.
“We continue to urge people to take care of themselves and follow some simple steps to reduce their risk of illness, especially during colder weather. Flu and other viruses are still circulating, so please protect yourself by taking up winter vaccines if you are eligible.”
The health board said infection prevention teams monitor flu and other winter illnesses daily and that arrangements will remain under review.
In some areas, visiting restrictions may still be introduced following local risk assessments, with patients and visitors advised to speak to ward staff if they have concerns.
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