Hospital trust confirms ‘several’ staff members sent home with COVID-19 symptoms

Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust runs four hospitals across the county, including Louth County Hospital (pictured).

The LCHS Trust - which runs services at hospitals in Louth, Skegness, Gainsborough and Spalding - confirmed the situation to the Louth Leader this morning (Friday).

The Leader submitted an enquiry to the Trust earlier this week, after receiving multiple reports of staff members at Louth County Hospital being sent home with symptoms. However, in line with NHS England guidelines, the LCHS Trust spokesman was not able to confirm which of their specific hospitals had been affected.

The spokesman said: “We can confirm that several members of staff working at our community hospitals have been sent home with COVID-19 related symptoms.

“Every infection prevention precaution is being taken, and staff caring for patients are trained and equipped to do so safely.

“We would encourage people to 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. Everyone has a role to play in helping to prevent the spread of infection.”

The spokesman asked members of the public to 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.