A healthcare organization has activated emergency protocols and is requesting that individuals with non-critical or non-urgent medical conditions explore other healthcare options.
Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust has implemented emergency protocols because of ongoing elevated Norovirus cases at East Surrey Hospital in the Redhill area and persistent pressure on emergency services.
The organization is encouraging patients to reserve the East Surrey Emergency Department for severe or life-threatening conditions only, while directing other urgent healthcare needs to alternative facilities such as the Urgent Treatment Centre at Crawley Hospital and minor injury departments at Horsham Hospital, Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead, and Caterham Dean.
Residents are also encouraged to utilize their general practitioner, nearby pharmacy, walk-in clinics, the NHS App, or NHS 111 for medical assistance.
The organization has also placed temporary limitations on visitors across all hospital wards.
Dr Ed Cetti, Chief Medical Officer for Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, stated: “Due to ongoing elevated Norovirus levels throughout our facility, continued high demand in our Emergency Department, and the difficulties we encounter when transferring patients throughout the grounds while adhering to required infection prevention protocols, the Trust has activated Emergency Protocols.
Consequently, visitor limitations remain in effect at East Surrey Hospital across all wards until further notice, with exceptions for individuals receiving end-of-life care, those in maternity and pediatric departments, and those in the Emergency Department. These restrictions aim to prevent additional transmission and ensure patient wellbeing.
In accordance with enhanced infection prevention measures, we continue to request that members of the public avoid visiting the hospital if they have experienced diarrhea or vomiting within the past 48 hours.
We understand the significance of visitation and are monitoring these protocols closely, planning to remove them as soon as circumstances allow.
The organization has cautioned that certain scheduled appointments may require rescheduling, though patients should proceed with their visits unless otherwise notified.
Critical procedures, including cancer treatments and other urgent surgical interventions, will maintain priority status.
All individuals permitted entry must adhere to infection prevention requirements, including wearing face coverings in affected clinical zones, maintaining proper hand hygiene, and restricting their movement throughout the facility.
Additional details can be found on the NHS Trust’s website.