Milton Keynes Hospital issues visitor ban with some exceptions

Nobody at all is allowed to visit a patient unless they are in maternity - where one birth partner is permitted - or on the children's ward - where one parent or guardian may visit.

Another exception may be when a patient is at the end of life.

"In the upsetting and difficult circumstances where patients may be at the end of their life, the decision for visiting will be down to the nurse in charge," said a spokesman.

Outpatients should stick to their appointments unless told otherwise by letter or telephone. Many consultations are taking place by remotely, via Skype, but again patients will be informed.

The spokesman said: "On arrival to any ward or department, all visitors should wash their hands thoroughly for 20 seconds at least or use the alcohol gel provided. We would ask that you do the same on leaving the ward. Thank you for your cooperation."

The visitors ban is already being circulated on social media and has not attracted any negative comments.

One poster wrote: "Best decision all round. Thank you for continuing to make important and life saving decisions even if this means patients and loved one disagree."