Southport and Ormskirk hospitals are restricting visiting from today following Government coronavirus advice to avoid all unnecessary contact and travel.

Families and friends of patients with either suspected or confirmed Covid-19 (coronavirus) infection are asked not to visit hospital other than in exceptional circumstances.

For all other patients visiting is restricted to a named individual for one hour a day.

Separate arrangements will apply to the following:

• Maternity and women in labour – one partner per patient
• Child inpatients – one carer per child
• Accident and emergency department – one person per patient

Please speak to the ward or department for further information. The Trust also aims to speak to the next of kin of all patients.

Chief Executive Trish Armstrong-Child said: “As I nurse, I know these restrictions will be difficult and frustrating for many people but it is essential we do everything in our power to protect patients, their visitors and our staff from infection.

“We are asking people to limit visiting and consider other ways of keeping in touch, such as using the phone.

“We hope to restore open visiting as soon we are advised by Public Health England that the coronavirus threat is diminished.”

Visitors with symptoms relating to Covid-19, including a cough or temperature, must not visit hospital and follow the guidance issued by NHS111.

Anyone with any symptoms relating to a stomach upset, including diarrhoea and/or vomiting, should also stay away.