All visiting at hospitals and care facilities in the Southern Trust is to be cancelled from noon tomorrow (Friday).
The Trust says the action is necessary due to the “significant rise of confirmed cases of Covid-19 in our community and in order to protect patients, visitors and staff”.
The increase has led to pressures on local hospitals and care facilities under the Trust’s management.
And it has therefore confirmed that it is “temporarily suspending” visiting with patients and clients on all sites and facilities from noon on New Year’s Day.
A spokesperson said: “Only end of life visits and birthing partners will be permitted.
“We fully appreciate that this is very difficult for families but in the interest of everyone’s safety, we regret that it remains necessary at this time.
“This suspension will be reviewed next Wednesday, January 5.
“We are encouraging virtual visits for patients in Craigavon Hospital or Daisy Hill Hospital and if relatives need support with this, please call our Virtual Visiting Co-Ordinator between 9am and 5pm on 077 7651 6419 to set this up with your loved one.”
