QEH King's Lynn issues safety plea after verbal abuse from people not wearing masks

QEH Chief Nurse Alice Webster has addressed an open letter to the public, as a plea following abuse from patients who "prefer not to wear a face covering".

She said:"To our local community, our patients and their families-We know, that for many, the lifting of restrictions on 19 July was long awaited, and resembled some degree of normality returning, which was warmly welcomed across our communities.

"However, coronavirus cases continue to rise. The country is seeing signs of increases in patients being admitted to hospital, including at your local hospital, where there are currently three Covid-19 inpatients. We have therefore decided that our patients, visitors and colleagues will be required to continue adhering to Covid rules beyond July 19.

"Sadly there have been some instances of verbal abuse towards our staff in recent days from people who would prefer not to wear a face covering.

"We don’t condone any such behaviour. Our staff are here to care for patients and their families and continue to go above and beyond to do their best in challenging circumstances. No abuse will be tolerated.

"The Trust asks all patients, visitors and staff to continue wearing face coverings, unless exempt, as well as to wash their hands for 20 seconds regularly and remain socially distanced.

"Our visiting restrictions will also remain in place, permitting each inpatient one nominated visitor, who can visit for one hour each day. We continue to ask that patients attending an outpatient appointment, and the hospital’s Emergency Department and Acute Assessment areas, attend alone.

"Exceptions will continue to apply to visitors attending with a child or vulnerable patient with learning disabilities, autism or dementia, and patients

who are critically ill or receiving end of life care."

36 new people in West Norfolk had a confirmed positive test result reported on July 19 according to the latest ONS figures.

In the last week 442 people had a confirmed positive test result.

This shows an increase of 124.4% compared to the previous seven days.

Dr Louise Smith spoke to BBC Radio Norfolk this morning about the rise in cases in the Norfolk area.

Two people have been hospitalised in the last two weeks but there haven't been any coronavirus deaths.

There are currently three patients in the QEH with Covid-19.