A RISE in the number of positive cases of Covid-19 has forced the closure of a ward at Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway.
NHS Western Isles said the hospital ward will be closed to new admissions until further notice, with just one designated visitor permitted for one visit a day for each inpatient.
Visitors must also ensure that they book visits in advance and should wear a face mask.
The health board said an incident management team had been established to prevent further spread within Medical Ward 1.
A statement said: “Medical Ward 1 in Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway will be closed to new adult medical admissions until further notice, as a number of positive cases of COVID-19 have been linked to the ward.
“To help prevent further spread, the ward will be closed to medical admissions until further notice (with the exception of patients requiring admission to the High Dependency Unit and paediatric patients).
“An Incident Management Team has been established to ensure all necessary measures are in place to prevent further spread of the virus within the ward.
“There will be temporary visiting restrictions in Medical Ward 1 and, until further notice, one designated visitor will be permitted for one visit a day for each inpatient. Essential visiting will also continue.
“Visitors to Medical Ward 1 must ensure that they book visits in advance, through the ward, and should wear a mask when visiting. Please do not visit under any circumstances if you develop symptoms.”
