Due to the large surge of positive Covid-19 cases in the community, the Bermuda Hospitals Board will stop all visiting from noon today for acute inpatient units at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute, other than in exceptional circumstances such as end of life or young children.

Visits to long term care units, including group homes, ceased last week. Maternity will continue to have a support person for mothers.

A spokeswoman said: “For anyone wanting to reach out to their loved ones in hospital, Wi-Fi is free at BHB, so inpatients and residents can use mobile and laptops to stay in touch, without incurring costs.”

For other areas of the hospital:

· Outpatient clinics are currently reviewing individual cases and will introduce more telemedicine and focus on urgent cases. Surgical services are also reviewing lists. Patients will be contacted directly should there be any rescheduling required.

· Dialysis services will continue as normal.

· Imaging Services is temporarily reducing its non-urgent outpatient service, prioritising emergency, urgent and inpatient needs.

· Emergency Department patients are reminded that companions are not allowed, unless a parent with a child, or carer/companion/relative with a vulnerable or combative adult.

· Anyone worried they may have COVID-19 symptoms can refer to the Symptom Checklist , and should call their doctor or the Emergency Department before seeking care in person.

The spokeswoman added: “Anyone who does have to access our hospitals are reminded to use the screens for a temperature and mask check, and wear your mask at all times, maintain physical distancing and wash your hands regularly and well.”