Hand sanitiser and ear thermometers are being stolen from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot hospitals, health chiefs have said.
Swansea Bay University Health Board bosses believe visitors are responsible for the thefts and are pleading with the public to stop stealing the items which are urgently needed for patients, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement on its social media channels, the health board said: “We have had reports that inner ear thermometers and bottles of hand sanitiser gel have gone missing from our hospitals.
“Neath Port Talbot Hospital has lost four thermometers. We believe visitors are responsible. This is really disappointing.
“While we recognise that this is a very worrying time and certain goods are in short supply, PLEASE STOP taking supplies from our sites. We need them to care for your loved ones. Thanks in advance.”
The post on Facebook has received hundreds of comments with many people appalled by the news of the thefts, labelling the incidents “disgusting” and “despicable”.
Paula Boland said: “Absolutely disgusting these people should be ashamed of themselves.”
While Shannon Fitzgerald added: “Absolutely disgusting. How shameful are some people. No morals what so ever stealing from the very NHS hospitals that are caring for their loved ones that they are visiting. Disgraceful.”
The UK is now on lockdown following strict new measures announced by the Prime Minister.
Public Health Wales confirmed on Tuesday, March 24, that the number of confirmed cases in Wales of Covid-19 now stands at 478, after 60 more people were diagnosed.
One more person has died in Wales after testing positive for coronavirus, which brings the total to 17.
But the overall figure is expected to be much higher as only a small proportion of people, including healthcare workers and patients already in hospital, are currently being tested.
