Why Your Healthcare Professional May Be Wearing a Mask

You may notice that some of our colleagues are wearing face masks when providing your care, particularly during wound care.

This is a precautionary step to help protect you. There is currently an increase in a common type of bacteria in the Norfolk community called Group A Streptococcus (GAS). For most people this bacteria does not cause serious illness, but it can enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as wounds.

Wearing a mask during wound care helps reduce the already low risk of bacteria being passed from anyone’s throat (even if they feel completely well) into a wound. It is one of several simple measures we are taking to keep our patients safe.

Please be reassured:

• This is a precaution, not because you are at additional risk
• Your care will continue as normal
• Our staff are following infection prevention guidance

If you have any questions or concerns, your healthcare professional will be happy to discuss them with you.
Thank you for your understanding and support.