Those wishing to visit friends and loved ones in Fife hospitals should only do so if they are free of the symptoms of colds and viruses.

This means that anyone with a cough, sore throat, or any other symptoms of a cold or flu, should not be visiting patients in a hospital. In doing so, people with these symptoms risk passing viruses to vulnerable patients and healthcare staff. 

Janette Keenan, director of nursing, said: “Each winter we see an increase in the numbers of people falling ill with virus like colds, flu, as well as stomach bugs like norovirus. This is in addition to COVID, which doesn’t appear to follow the seasonal patterns we see with other viruses.

“While for most people things like coughs, colds and stomach bugs can make us feel unwell for a few days, for those in hospital and who already vulnerable, these viruses can be much more serious. It’s important, therefore, that we do all we can to prevent such illnesses from being brought into our hospitals.”

Anyone who has been experiencing vomiting or diarrhoea should also avoid visiting someone in hospital until 48 hours after their symptoms have subsided. 

Janette added: “In recent weeks we have again began to see an increase in the number of wards having to impose restrictions due to clusters of different viruses.

“It is hugely important that visitors help us prevent these illnesses being brought into our hospitals. By taking reasonable steps, like postponing your visit if you are or have recently been unwell, this helps prevent us having to close wards, it protects patients and it protects the hard-working NHS staff who are caring for them.”