Face mask requirements in our direct admission areas
Like other areas across the country, Gloucestershire is seeing a sharp increase in Flu and other respiratory illnesses and this is being reflected in the number of people coming to our hospitals.
To help limit the spread of infection and keep patients, visitors and staff as safe as possible, we are asking patients and their relatives to wear a surgical face mask when entering our direct admission areas, wherever they are able to do so. These areas include:
- Emergency Departments at both sites
- Acute Medical Unit (AMU) at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital (GRH)
- Frailty Assessment Suite (FAS)
- Acute Haematology Oncology Unit (AHOU) at Cheltenham General Hospital (CGH)
- Surgical Assessment Unit (SAU) at GRH
- Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) at both hospitals
- Paediatric Admissions Unit (PAU) at GRH
- Maternity Triage at GRH
Masks are available at the entrances to these departments. If you cannot wear one, please let a member of staff know when you arrive.
These steps are temporary and designed to protect everyone during this period of heightened respiratory illness. We will update this guidance as soon as we are able to return to our usual approach.
Additional points:
• Inpatients with confirmed or suspected flu or COVID-19 will be offered a facemask.
• Anyone with symptoms of flu or COVID-19, even if mild, must not visit patients.
Please do not attend our hospitals if you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19, other respiratory infection or illness. More information
Flu vaccination
The flu vaccine is strongly recommended for people who may become seriously unwell if they catch flu. You are eligible for a free NHS vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over (including those turning 65 by 31 March 2026)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are a main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
How to get your flu vaccine
If you qualify for an NHS flu jab, you can:
- contact your GP practice to book
- book an appointment at a participating pharmacy online or through the NHS App (if you are 18 or over)
- visit a pharmacy offering walk-in NHS flu vaccinations (if you are 18 or over)
Vaccination is available until 31 March 2026, but it is best to get protected as early as possible. Online booking closes on 30 March 2026.