COVID-19 is still with us, and the safety of NHS patients, visitors and staff is our top priority. Everyone accessing or visiting healthcare settings must continue to wear a face covering, unless they are exempt, and follow social distancing rules.
This applies to all health and care settings and services, including hospitals, GP practices, dentists, optometrists and pharmacies to ensure patients and staff are protected.
NHS teams will continue to take other infection prevention and control measures to minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and other infections in health and care settings.
The presence of the Omicron variant poses an enhanced risk of COVID-19 transmission and means it is ever more important to adhere to strict infection prevention and control principles and guidance.
It is important for the public to continue to play their part when visiting NHS and care settings to help protect our staff and patients, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to infections.