Covid-19: Hospital chief welcomes news of vaccine development

In a new weekly coronavirus update, launched today (Thursday), Rotherham Hospital chief executive Dr Richard Jenkins, said: "News of the vaccine development is a positive step and we will soon be able to look forward to potentially having less restrictions affecting our daily lives.

"In the mean time, we need everyone’s continued support in following the advice of limiting your contact with others outside your household, washing your hands regularly and wearing a face covering. It does make a difference by reducing the spread of COVID-19 and the demand it places on our staff and health services."

Dr Jenkins said the trust continued to admit and care for patients with Covid-19 and currently had 132 inpatients who have tested positive for Covid-19 - with 12 in crtitical care.

"These figures fluctuate daily as many patients with Covid-19 are making a quicker recovery than in the initial wave of the pandemic and are able to be discharged from hospital," added Dr Jenkins. 

“Our colleagues are continuing to work incredibly hard under difficult circumstances and we are proud of their determination to provide the best care they can for all the patients in Rotherham Hospital and in the community.

“It is great to see initial data this week which shows infection rates decreasing in some areas of South Yorkshire, and hopefully this will result in a decrease in hospital admissions in the next couple of weeks."

The trust is also asking people who have an appointment or operation to attend as planned unless contacted.