11 December 2025

To help protect patients, visitors, and staff while there are increasing numbers of respiratory illnesses, including flu, and norovirus in the local community, Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust has introduced mask wearing in some areas of Queen Alexandra Hospital and is encouraging visitors to join staff in wearing one too. This decision follows an increase in respiratory illnesses, including flu, and norovirus cases locally.

We encourage visitors to wear a mask in the following areas:

  • Emergency Department
  • Same Day Emergency Care (SDECs)
  • Acute Medical Unit (AMU)
  • Other areas where requested by staff or signage

Masks will be available at the doors, and patients and visitors are welcome to wear them anywhere across the hospital if they feel more comfortable.

We regularly review our infection prevention measures and introduce extra precautions when needed to reduce the spread of illness and safeguard those who may be more vulnerable to infection.

We are asking for your support as we put this measure in place.

When coming to the hospital, please:

  • Wear a mask in admitting areas where signage requests it
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
  • Use hand sanitiser stations throughout the hospital
  • If you can attend on your own, please do so. If you need to bring someone with you, please try and limit this to one person if possible.

Please avoid visiting if you are unwell with flu symptoms, vomiting or diarrhoea. Our services remain available for those who need us. If you need medical help but aren’t sure which is the best service for your needs, please contact NHS 111 Online or by phone.

Thank you for your understanding and support in helping us keep our patients and visitors safe.