Mid Cheshire Hospitals is reintroducing face masks in clinical areas of its hospitals from Thursday 9 January, amid rising cases of flu and other seasonal viruses.

The change to the trust's face masks guidance means patients and visitors are strongly urged to wear a face mask in all of Mid Cheshire Hospitals' clinical locations.

They are not required to wear a mask in non-clinical areas and masks will be provided in relevant areas of each site.

From Thursday 9 January, patients and visitors are strongly urged to wear a face mask in all of Mid Cheshire Hospitals' clinical locations (MCHT).

People preferring to wear a face mask in any part of the trust's hospitals will be supported to do so.

Mid Cheshire Hospitals told Nub News It is also asking patients and visitors to:

• Adhere to the times and numbers of visitors allowed in its ward guidelines
• Follow other guidance on preventing infection and using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if advised by staff

Chief medical officer and deputy chief executive officer, Dr Clare Hammell, said: "In line with trusts across the country, we are seeing rising cases of flu and other seasonal illnesses, which are having a significant impact on our already stretched NHS.

"It is important we take steps to address this to protect our patients, visitors and staff.

"We are asking for everyone's support to stop the spread of flu and other winter viruses.

Chief medical officer and deputy chief executive officer at Mid Cheshire Hospitals, Dr Clare Hammell (MCHT).

"Evidence tells us wearing a mask can help and without face masks, the risk of transmitting and spreading infections is increased. visitors for helping to protect themselves, others and our NHS."

"We will keep these temporary measures under review in the coming weeks. We would like to thank our patients and READ MORE: Popular Crewe eatery hit with two-star food hygiene rating.

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