Croydon University Hospital will be limiting patient access moving forward following the coronavirus outbreak.

In a message posted on the hospital's website it said that from now on it would be temporarily reducing the number of visitors to it patients until further notice.

"This is an important step to help protect vulnerable people in our care as well as our staff.

"If you have a dry cough or a high temperature please do not visit at all.

"We are asking people in our community to limit visiting to patients in hospital to essential visitors only."

The following restrictions are now in place:

  • One visitor will be allowed at a time per patient
  • No children (under 16) unless pre-agreed with ward managers
  • No visitors at all on some of our wards unless pre-agreed with ward managers

On children’s wards:

  • Two visitors will be allowed at a time per patient

On maternity wards:

  • Only one visitor per mother and only children by exceptional and pre-agreed arrangement with the lead midwife

"We will of course do our best to accommodate visits to patients who are critically ill or nearing the end of their life," the hospital's statement continued.

"If you are in any doubt, please contact the ward before your visit. You can find contact information for all of our wards here.

"Thank you for your understanding at this time."