THE TRUST running Southampton's main hospital has brought back Covid restrictions following yet another spike in cases.

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Southampton General Hospital, says rising Covid infections are affecting staffing, with medics being off sick, which in turn is adding to existing pressures.

It says hospitals are experiencing "unprecedented levels of demand".

READ MORE: Hospital to enforce face masks again after 19 bays close due to Covid

As of Wednesday, 166 coronavirus patients were being cared for across the trust's hospitals.

NHS England data shows the number of people being treated in hospital for Covid by 8am on October 5 was up from 98 on the same day the previous week.

By comparison, there were no beds occupied by Covid patients four weeks ago.

A spokesperson for University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust said: “We have taken the decision to reintroduce COVID-19 infection prevention measures in our hospitals following a sharp rise in cases which is placing unprecedented levels of demand on our services.

“Since the start of the pandemic and throughout subsequent waves, our priority across the Trust has always been to protect our staff, our vulnerable patients and the services we provide.

“This current spike in cases is affecting our staffing, with a significant number absent due to COVID-19 related illness. 

“This is compounding the pressures we are currently seeing across our hospital; the issues we have with patients who are medically fit to leave but are unable to be discharged and our Emergency Department once again seeing unprecedented demand.  

“Our staff are working incredibly hard to care for everyone who needs our help. We are asking our community to:

  • Wash your hands, walk apart and wear a mask inside our hospitals (unless medically exempt)
  • Stay away from our hospitals if you have symptoms, or are a contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
  • Attend appointments on your own wherever possible
  • Think about the treatment you need and whether another service, like a pharmacy, GP or urgent treatment centre could help you
  • If you have a loved one who is ready to leave hospital please liaise with the ward staff and make arrangements for their collection
  • Book your flu and Covid booster vaccine if eligible"

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