HEALTH chiefs have said face masks will have to be worn at all hospitals across north and west Cumbria.

The North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust made the announcement this week.

The trust runs the Cumberland Infirmary, in Carlisle, and West Cumberland Hospital, in Whitehaven, together with a number of community hospitals and sexual health clinics.

A spokesman said: “In line with recent recommendations from the World Health Organisation, we are introducing new measures to keep visitors, patients, and staff safe.

“You will need to wear a face covering when you come as a visitor or outpatient.

“We can all play a role in reducing the spread of coronavirus and keeping our hospitals safe. If you are coming to hospital as a visitor or for planned outpatient care, it is important that you wear a face covering at all times.

“Coverings worn as part of religious beliefs or cultural practice are also acceptable, if they are not loose and cover the mouth and nose.”

Visitors can also get masks from staff members.

Those who can’t wear masks for health reasons will be considered, case-by-case, for other means to keep them safe.