Despite all plan B restrictions Covid restrictions being lifted last week, visiting restrictions at West Hertfordshire hospitals have been extended, following a two-week review.

The West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust temporarily suspended visitors from the start of 2022 following the spread of Covid and particularly the omicron variant in the local community.

At the time, it was said that the situation would be monitored carefully and reviewed after two weeks, then by January 14 the trust confirmed it would extend the restrictions for a further two weeks.

Now the NHS trust has confirmed that such restrictions will remain and will be reviewed again in another two weeks, despite the plan B measures being lifted in England last week (January 26).

While rules such as compulsory mask-wearing on public transport and shops, vaccine passports in particular venues and guidance to work from home have been lifted, the NHS Trust continues with precaution.

No visitors will be allowed into West Hertfordshire hospitals, except for maternity services and exceptional circumstances including:

• The patient is receiving end of life care.

• The patient is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

• The patient is a child on a paediatric ward, being visited by their parents or an appropriate adult.

• The patient has a mental health issue, where not having a family member present would cause distress to the patient.

• The patient has dementia, a learning disability or autism, where not having a family member present would cause distress to the patient.

Meanwhile face coverings are still required at the hospitals for all patients and visitors who are not exempt.

Visiting restrictions will be reviewed again on February 11.