AFTER a period when visiting was allowed under strict conditions, Basildon and Thurrock Hospital has now banned all but visits to people close to end of life.

Restrictions have also been brought in at Southend Hospital and Broomfield Hospital to "minimise the impact" of the coronavirus outbreak.

Visitors will only be allowed under exceptional circumstances including end-of-life patients.

Women who are due to attend the maternity wards are only allowed one birthing partner and no visitors during their stay.

Anyone who does visit the hospital are advised to draw the bed curtain round halfway to minimalise the coronavirus spread.

A statement from the hospitals says:

Please remember:

• All visitors must wash their hands before and after visiting relatives

• Visitors must be over the age of 16 – children are not allowed

• Please do not enter the hospital in you feel unwell

• If you have a high temperature or new cough please return home and self-isolate

• Our restaurant is currently closed to visitors to give our staff a place to be with each other and take some time to rest