March 23, 2020 12.27 pm This story is over 48 months old

Trust confirms coronavirus patients at Lincoln and Boston hospitals

Every infection precaution is being taken
Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

A patient with a confirmed case of coronavirus is being treated at Lincoln County Hospital and a further two at Pilgrim Hospital in Boston.

The United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust (ULHT) confirmed on Monday, March 23 that every infection precaution is being taken, including caring for patients in isolation. The trust said that staff caring for the patients are “trained and equipped to do so safely.”

Patients with outpatient and inpatient appointments should still come to hospital unless they have a new-onset cough or fever, in which case they should follow national guidance on self-isolation. In this case they should also contact the number on their appointment letter to cancel.

In addition, visiting has been suspended at all wards in Lincoln, Boston, and at Grantham and District Hospital.

The measure has been put in place to protect staff and patients from the spread of coronavirus. The only exceptions are:

  • The maternity department will allow one birthing partner to attend
  • Parents who do not show the symptoms of infection can visit their children

ULHT added that any other visits are by exception only and typically will be granted on compassionate grounds agreed in advance with the nurse in charge of the ward.

As of Sunday, March 22, the number of COVID-19 cases in the UK went up to 5,683, with at least 281 dead.

As of Monday, March 23, there are officially 14 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Lincolnshire. This is in addition to two cases in North Lincolnshire and one case in North East Lincolnshire.

The following public health advice has also been issued:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
  • Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Avoid close contact with other people

Follow The Lincolnite’s extensive live blog coverage here and the latest information on COVID-19 from the NHS.