IN an effort to reduce the spread of infections, NHS Borders is calling on the public to "play their part" and keep their hands clean.

The health board has issued important advice to people visiting loved ones in hospital.

Those visiting hospital should ensure they maintain good hand hygiene during their visit, and use available hand sanitiser to prevent the spread of illness.

It is also advised that those feeling "under the weather" with a cough, cold, sore throat, fever, or stomach bug, wait until they feel better and have been symptom-free for 48 hours before visiting the hospital.

Sarah Horan, director of nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals at NHS Borders, said: “When people are in hospital their bodies are already working hard to help them recover from an illness or surgery.

"During their recovery our patients are more susceptible to common coughs, colds and tummy bugs, which visitors can unknowingly pass on.

"So if you are unwell please help protect yourself and others by staying at home and not visiting relatives who are in hospital.”

Preventing the spread of norovirus and COVID-19 is of vital importance as we move into the colder months.

Sam Whiting, infection control manager for NHS Borders added: “Good hand hygiene saves lives.

"It is essential that everyone plays their part in preventing the spread of infections like COVID-19 and norovirus, and one of the simplest ways of doing this is regularly washing your hands.

“When visiting our hospitals, hand hygiene is very important to keep yourself and those you are visiting safe.

"There is hand sanitiser placed around our sites, so when you see it, please use it.”

For more information on good hand hygiene, as well as a guide on how to thoroughly wash your with a helpful video, visit: How To Wash Your Hands - NHS