Running rampant: Canterbury DHB tightens hospital visit rules as respiratory illness surges

Canterbury DHB is making urgent changes to visiting rules as cases of respiratory illness rise in the community. Photo / Supplied

Canterbury DHB is making urgent changes to visiting rules as cases of respiratory illness rise in the community.

It is requesting people visit Christchurch and Burwood Hospitals for essential purposes only, and to stay home if they are unwell.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Helen Skinner said only one person should come in to visit at a time, but no children.

She says visitors should wear a face mask or other face covering.

Anyone with a planned surgery or an outpatient appointment should still turn up as planned.

The changes are in place until further notice while there are a number of viruses circulating and the hospitals are at capacity, she said.

"Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we all work to protect our vulnerable patients and staff."

Summary of key changes for Christchurch and Burwood Hospitals:

• Visiting is restricted to one person at a time per patient, for essential purposes only.

• People should stay home if they're unwell.

• Children are not permitted to visit, unless an exception has been granted by the relevant Charge Nurse of the ward being visited, until further notice.

• It is recommended that anyone visiting wears a face mask or other face covering.