People in Gateshead will be able to visit loved ones at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital again from Monday after NHS bosses there announced plans to ease Covid visiting restrictions.
Tight limits on visitors were introduced as the Omicron Covid-19 wave hit in early January - but with cases falling around the region, and the country, hospital execs have decided it's safe to allow the public back into the hospital from February 21.
However, strict rules will remain in place.
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Would-be visitors must pre-book an appointment with the nurse in charge of the ward in question, they must not have Covid-19 symptoms and must have evidence of a negative lateral flow test (LFT) taken that day.
They will also need to wear appropriate PPE.
Gill Findley, the Gateshead Health NHS Trust's chief nurse, said: "We know how important visiting is for people who are in hospital, which is why our staff have worked hard to make this possible again.
"It is important for everyone coming into our site to be aware they must pre-book appointments, wash hands frequently, wear appropriate PPE and only visit if they have no Covid-19 symptoms. We want to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation at this time."
"Virtual visiting" will remain possible, and anyone with questions about visiting is encouraged to contact the Trust's patient advice and liaison service (PALS).
Restrictions at Northumbria Healthcare's hospitals in Northumberland and North Tyneside were relaxed earlier in the month, but those at other Trusts in the region remain in place.
