Flu and respiratory infections are rising across the country, and we’re seeing increased numbers of patients with flu in our Emergency Department and on our wards.

As a temporary measure, we have reintroduced the wearing of face masks in some areas of our hospitals from Thursday 11th December 2025.

We are advising patients and visitors to wear face masks at all times in the following areas:

• Emergency Department
• Same Day Emergency Care
• Assessment Areas
• Medical Admissions Unit (MAU)
• Lowton Ward
• Winstanley Ward
• Cancer Care Centre
• Ince Ward
• Wigan Urgent Treatment Centre
• Leigh Urgent Treatment Centre

We are also advising that face masks are worn by any immunocompromised patients in our ward and department areas.

Face masks will be provided, please ask a member of staff if you need one. If you feel you are exempt, please discuss this with a member of staff.

Help protect yourself, your loved ones and our patients from flu this winter:

• Remember to only attend the Emergency Department if it's serious or life or limb-threatening
• If you are unwell, please don’t visit until you are feeling better. If you have symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, please do not visit the hospital until you have been clear of these symptoms for at least 72 hours
• If you are eligible for a flu jab, book in with your GP or local pharmacy as soon as possible
• If you are feeling unwell, but have a hospital appointment, please contact the relevant department for advice on whether to attend or to postpone your appointment
• Hand hygiene continues to be very important. Please ensure you regularly use alcohol hand rub available to clean your hands both before and after you visit a loved one. This is available in ward and department areas
• Wash your hands with soap and water after going to the toilet, to prevent the spread of infections

We will continue to regularly review the use of face masks in our hospitals.

Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe.