Forth Valley hospitals close doors to visitors to tackle rise in COVID

The action has been taken in the light of rising coronavirus cases in the community.

Only essential visits and other arrangements to support pregnant women and children will be allowed.

Virtual visiting will continue to be offered using phones, iPads and laptops.

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Professor Angela Wallace,NHS Forth Valley nurse director, said: “I understand not being able to visit a loved one while they are in hospital will be upsetting for many people.

“However, I would like to assure people that this decision has not been taken lightly, and we hope local patients and families understand the reasons behind this difficult decision and work with us to support these new arrangements.”

Under new national visiting guidance, some essential visits are still permitted.

These include visits for patients receiving end-of-life care, to support a child or baby in hospital or to accompany pregnant women to scans and antenatal appointments and provide support during and after labour.

www.nhsforthvalley.com

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