COVID‑19 and other winter illnesses: advice for patients and visitors
We want visits and appointments to be as safe as possible for everyone. This page explains what to do if you are unwell or develop symptoms, and how our teams will support you to attend safely where possible.
By following this advice and the guidance from our staff, you can help keep yourself, other patients and our teams safe.
If you are unwell or have symptoms
If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of a respiratory or stomach bug, please help us keep everyone safe.
Before you visit or attend an appointment:
- Let the team know if you are unwell or develop symptoms before your visit
- Contact the ward or service directly for advice before coming in
- Follow guidance from ward staff, who will support you to attend safely where possible
Our staff may ask you to take additional precautions to protect patients, visitors and colleagues.
Face coverings and keeping others safe
You may be asked to wear a face covering if:
- You have symptoms of a respiratory illness
- You are visiting someone who is particularly vulnerable
- There is an increased risk of infection on the ward or service
Staff guidance may vary by setting, and we ask that visitors follow advice given on the day. If needed, our teams will provide a face covering and explain when and where to wear it.
Common winter illnesses
The following illnesses are more common during autumn and winter. They can spread easily, particularly in healthcare settings.
- COVID‑19
COVID‑19 can cause symptoms such as a cough, fever, sore throat, headache or feeling unwell. Some people may have mild symptoms, while others can feel more unwell.
Read more about COVID-19 symptoms and what to do on the NHS website
- Flu (Influenza)
Flu often comes on suddenly and can include fever, body aches, tiredness and headaches. It can be serious for older people and those with long‑term health conditions.
Read more about Flu (Influenza) symptoms and what to do on the NHS website
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
RSV is a common respiratory virus. It usually causes mild cold‑like symptoms but can be more serious for babies, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Read more about RSV symptoms and what to do on the NHS website
- Norovirus
Norovirus causes vomiting and diarrhoea and spreads very easily. People with symptoms should not visit wards or services until advised it is safe to do so.
Read more about Norovirus symptoms and what to do on the NHS website
If you are unsure whether to attend an appointment or visit a patient at one of our sites, please contact the ward or service you are visiting for guidance before travelling.
Hand hygiene – protecting yourself and others
Good hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to stop infections spreading.
We encourage everyone to:
- Clean their hands when entering and leaving buildings
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water where possible or if attending an area with cases of diarrhoea and vomiting
- Use the alcohol hand gel provided throughout our sites. Use after hand washing when visiting an area with cases of diarrhoea and vomiting.
Hand hygiene guidance:
How to wash your hands properly (NHS Guidance):
This short NHS video explains how to wash your hands properly using soap and water to help prevent the spread of infection.
Cleaning your hands effectively using hand gel:
This short video from the World Health Organisation (WHO) shows how to clean your hands effectively using alcohol hand gel when soap and water are not available
National health advice
For trusted national advice on symptoms, vaccinations and staying well, visit the NHS website.