Restrictions on visiting hours at Western Australian public hospitals aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus will be partially eased next week.
The rules were tightened on March 23, but from Tuesday, the number of people permitted to visit will increase to two people at one time.
Children will also be able to return as visitors and maternity patients can now be accompanied by two birthing partners.
Visits to suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients remain off-limits.
To ensure the safety of staff and patients, physical distancing throughout all locations remains critically important and visitors should continue to practice good personal hygiene.
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Health minister Roger Cook said this gradual easing of visitor restrictions reflects the significant progress made by WA.
"This partial easing of visitor restrictions is a really positive step in WA's journey to recovery from COVID-19," he said.
"Connection with family and loved ones during time of illness is so important and we want to make sure that we are doing everything we can to ensure that patients have the support they need whilst in hospital.
"I'd like to thank all the patients, families and staff who have been impacted by the original raft of COVID-19 visitor restrictions."
People are advised to not visit patients in hospitals if they:
- have tested positive for COVID-19
- have a fever, cold or a flu-like illness, including symptoms such as, sore throat, cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing
- have traveled outside Australia and are therefore required to self-isolate for 14 days
- have been in contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus and are therefore required to self-isolate for 14 days
To ensure all patients can continue to remain socially connected during COVID-19, health staff are available to discuss alternative means of communication.