Trust reveals it is treating three people in Lincolnshire for coronavirus - and cancels all routine elective surgery at its hospitals

And the United Lincolnshire Health Trust has now taken a decision to postpone all routine elective surgery from tomorrow (Tuesday 24 March).

Two of the three patients are being cared for at Pilgrim Hospital, Boston and the third is at Lincoln County Hospital, says the trust.

A spokesperson for the trust said: “Every infection prevention precaution is being taken, including caring for these patients in isolation. Our staff caring for the patients are trained and equipped to do so safely.”

The trust also today announced its decision to postpone all routine elective surgery.

The trust says the move is being made as part of our response to the current COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, enabling hospitals to free up staff to care for patients in other areas.

It means that from tomorrow, all day case and elective routine surgery will be cancelled at Lincoln County Hospital, Pilgrim Hospital, Boston and Grantham and District Hospital.

This does not include cancer surgery and other clinically urgent cases, the trust said.

All affected patients will be contacted directly to inform them of the cancellation.

The trust says people should visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19 for the latest information on COVID-19, to find out what the symptoms are and how to help prevent the spread.

It says everyone has a role to play in helping to prevent the spread of infection. Please help by following the public health advice:  

· 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 people who are unwell.