As a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, NHS Lothian has reviewed its policy on visiting to boost safety for patients and staff.
New guidance from the Scottish Government says that only immediate family or carers will be permitted to visit a patient in hospital.
Across NHS Lothian hospitals, visiting will be restricted to just two visitors at a time unless there are exceptional circumstances and following discussion with the nurse in charge.
As part of the new policy changes children under the age of 12 will not be permitted to visit.
Both measures have been taken in order to help reduce the number of people in any area, at any one time and to maintain distancing.
Professor Alex McMahon, Nurse Director, NHS Lothian, said: "We know that patients and their families will understand that we have to place safety at the very heart of everything we do.
"In some circumstances visiting is vital to help aid recovery and patient care.
"We are aware that this decision may be unpopular with some patients and families, but we would reassure them that we are prioritising the safety of their loved ones and our staff.
"Ensuring that we can continue to provide high quality patient care during these uncharted times is our top priority and we hope patients and their families will understand and respect this difficult decision."
"Visitors who have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) – fever and new and persistent cough – should stay at home and not come into hospital.
"Instead they can keep in contact with loved ones by phone or video call."
To find out the full details of the policy changes click here.
