The Gibraltar Health Authority wishes to remind the public that anyone experiencing symptoms of illness should not attend St Bernard’s Hospital wards to visit family or friends. 

This includes people suffering from: 

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Cold and flu type symptoms
• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Chills 

A statement continued: “Coming into a hospital while sick, even with what may seem like a minor illness, can put vulnerable patients at risk and ultimately do more harm than good. Restricting visits while symptomatic is a key public health measure, especially during winter months when viruses circulate more easily.

“The GHA encourages individuals to stay home and only attend once fully recovered. 

“The GHA thanks the community for their cooperation in helping to keep hospital environments safe and prevent unnecessary outbreaks.”

The Director of Public Health, Dr Helen Carter, said: "Even a well-intentioned visit can have serious consequences if you are unwell. When someone is in hospital, their immune system is already under stress. Bringing in a virus, even unknowingly, could do more harm than good. By staying away when you have symptoms, you are protecting patients, supporting healthcare teams and helping us keep St Bernard’s Hospital safe this winter."