NHS Ayrshire & Arran have taken the decision to suspend visiting times in all of their hospitals from midnight tonight.
The decision was made to protect the most vulnerable patients and it relates to University Hospital Ayr, University Hospital Crosshouse, Ailsa Hospital, Arran War Memorial Hospital, Ayrshire Central Hospital, Ayrshire Maternity Unit, Biggart Hospital, East Ayrshire Community Hospital, Girvan Community Hospital, Kirklandside Hospital, Lady Margaret Hospital and Woodland View.
Dr Crawford McGuffie, Medical Director, said: “To limit the spread of COVID-19 and to protect our most vulnerable patients and ensure the safety of our staff, we are suspending visiting indefinitely from midnight on Tuesday 24 of March.
“We know this will be difficult for our patients and their families. However, we need to keep our patients and staff safe.”
Suspended visiting will be applied to all hospitals with the exception of the neonatal unit, maternity services and children’s ward, which will be restricted to the following:
- Maternity inpatient ward, labour ward and maternity theatres – One visitor/birthing partner is permitted and must remain within the maternity area at all times. No overnight stay permitted.
- Maternity outpatient services, including scans: no visitors permitted. Women to attend alone and may take a short video of their scan at the end of their appointment.
- Neonatal/Special Care Baby Unit: Only parents are permitted to visit and should remain with the child at all times.
- Children’s Ward: Only one carer permitted to visit and should remain with the child at all times.
For the latest health and travel advice, visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19#
A free helpline has been set up for those who do not have symptoms but are looking for general health advice: 0800 028 2816.
If you think you, or someone you care for, may have Coronavirus (COVID-19) related symptoms and you need to speak to someone, you should now call NHS 24 (111). NHS 24 are now the first point of contact, please do not contact your local GP.
