From today (Thursday 11 December), Hywel Dda University Health Board says everyone entering clinical or patient‑facing areas must wear a mask — whether you’re a nurse, porter, visitor or attending an appointment.
The move comes as cases of flu and respiratory viruses continue to climb, echoing warnings we reported earlier about the sharp rise in flu admissions across the region.
“We need to act now”
Sharon Daniel, Director of Nursing, Quality and Patient Experience, said:
“We are seeing a growing number of people with flu and other respiratory viruses needing our care and need to take this proactive step to limit the spread.”
She urged visitors to stay away if they’re unwell, and to wait at least 48 hours after symptoms of flu, colds, sickness or diarrhoea have cleared before coming to hospital.
What the new rules mean for patients and visitors
For anyone heading into hospital or community sites across west Wales, the change will be immediately noticeable. Masks are now compulsory in all clinical areas — whether you’re a nurse on shift, a porter passing through, or a visitor attending an appointment. Supplies will be available at entrances and inside wards, so people won’t be turned away for not bringing their own.
At this stage, visiting remains permitted, but health chiefs have warned that restrictions could be introduced at short notice if flu and virus levels continue to rise. The message is clear: the situation is being monitored closely, and further measures are not off the table.
Wider public health message
Behind the mask mandate lies a broader appeal to communities. Officials are urging people to think twice before visiting if they’re feeling unwell, and to give themselves at least 48 hours symptom‑free before stepping onto hospital grounds. The aim is to protect vulnerable patients and keep staff healthy enough to deliver care.
There’s also a renewed push on the basics — regular hand‑washing with soap and warm water, and taking up the offer of flu, RSV and COVID‑19 vaccinations where eligible. Health leaders say these simple steps can make a big difference in easing pressure on services during the busiest time of year.
Sharon added:
“A simple way to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe and well this winter is to have a flu vaccination. Thank you to our communities, our patients, and our staff for all your support in looking after one another.”
