The Committee for Health and Social Care has said these changes will remain in place for the time-being but will be reviewed every week in the run up to Christmas. 

The committee has said the change in rules is down to an increase in the number of patients at the hospital with  Covid-19. They said there are "currently a number of patients with Covid-19 in the hospital" - but they have not confirmed how many.

The spokesperson said: "...in an effort to contain the spread as much as possible we are re-introducing these measures. The majority are not displaying Covid-19 symptoms, but we are pro-actively taking this step across our services."

The spokesperson acknowledged that ill health is not unusual at this time of year but people should still take precautions to protect themselves and others.

1/4 As it starts to get colder, we would like to remind people of the importance of staying at home if you feel unwell. It is important to prevent the spread of infections such as COVID-19 and flu and staying at home will help this. pic.twitter.com/ttO21lEjF9

— States of Guernsey (@Govgg) December 12, 2022

"An increase in cases of COVID-19 or influenza and staff illness is not unexpected at this time of year given the increase of indoor mixing with the colder winter temperatures meaning that people are more likely to spend more time indoors. However, it serves as an important reminder for the community to continue taking precautions to limit the spread."

Face coverings will be provided at all entrances to the PEH in case visitors do not have one. All staff will also be wearing face coverings both in hospital and community settings.

As well as taking an LFT before visiting the hospital people are asked to not visit the PEH or any care home setting if they have any cold or flu-like symptoms irrespective of their LFT result.