Why is the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust asking visitors to wear masks?

The trust has reintroduced mask requirements for visitors to protect vulnerable patients and staff from a current rise in respiratory illnesses.

Where must visitors wear masks at Royal Berkshire NHS Trust?

Masks are required in high-risk patient-facing areas, including the emergency department, eye casualty, and medical assessment units.

Who should avoid visiting the hospital?

Anyone with cold, flu-like symptoms, or who has experienced diarrhea or vomiting in the last 48 hours is advised against visiting.

Home / Health / Masks Return: NHS Trust Battles Rising Illnesses

Masks Return: NHS Trust Battles Rising Illnesses

15 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Visitors must wear masks at Royal Berkshire NHS Trust sites.
The measure aims to protect vulnerable patients and staff.
Visitors with recent symptoms should avoid the hospital.

Masks Return: NHS Trust Battles Rising Illnesses

A significant increase in respiratory illnesses has prompted the Royal Berkshire NHS Trust to reintroduce mask-wearing for visitors on its premises. This decision reflects a commitment to enhancing the safety of those most susceptible to infection within the hospital environment.

The trust, which oversees the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, has stipulated that face coverings are compulsory in critical patient-facing zones. These include the emergency department, eye casualty, and medical assessment units, where the risk of transmission is considered highest.

Furthermore, the trust strongly advises individuals who have exhibited symptoms such as coughs, colds, flu-like conditions, or sickness and diarrhea within the preceding 48 hours to refrain from attending the hospital, either as patients or visitors, to prevent further spread.