PATIENTS and visitors will no longer have to wear a mask at Southampton General Hospital.

The announcement comes as NHS England issues new guidelines on the use of masks in hospital settings.

However patients will be asked to wear masks in some circumstances, including at the emergency department and other admission areas.

Masks will remain available at the entrances to the hospital for those who wish to continue using them.


Read more: Tributes paid to porter 'who was part of the fabric of the Princess Anne Hospital'


A spokesperson from the hospital said: "We appreciate the easing of mask wearing and social distancing requirements marks a significant change for both our staff and our patients, and we need to continue to support each other during this period of transition.

"During this time we will also work to update all signage and messaging that is either being displayed through the estate or is available through our digital channels.

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News