Hospitals in south Wales are reintroducing mandatory mask-wearing as rising winter illnesses put unprecedented pressure on staff and vulnerable patients.
South Wales health boards have reinstated compulsory mask-wearing in hospitals to protect patients and staff amid a surge in winter viruses.
Two health boards in south Wales have tightened infection-control measures across their hospitals as rising winter illness rates trigger growing concern over pressures on the NHS. Both Aneurin Bevan and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Boards have announced the return of mandatory mask-wearing on their sites, echoing practices widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board said a “sharp rise” in winter viruses and infection rates had prompted it to reintroduce masks and strengthen visiting rules across its hospitals.
The board urged people to help protect vulnerable patients by wearing a face covering whenever they attend a hospital site, washing their hands regularly, and ensuring they are vaccinated against flu, RSV and COVID-19 if eligible.
“These measures are vital to protect patients and staff during the winter months,” the board said. “We would like to thank everyone for their cooperation in helping keep our communities safe.”
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board confirmed it is extending its own compulsory mask requirement until 12 January 2026. It first brought masks back on 24 November and said it has already seen “the important role” they play in slowing the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses.
Under the extended policy, fluid-repellent masks must be worn by all staff, patients and visitors, unless clinically exempt, in all hospital areas, including wards, Emergency Departments and Minor Injury Units.
“When worn correctly, masks act as a filter that reduces the number of germs you breathe in and out,” the board said. “If worn by someone who has a virus, masks can significantly reduce the chance of spreading it to others.”
The decision comes as the NHS in Wales braces for what is traditionally its most challenging period of the year.
Winter routinely brings spikes in flu, RSV, norovirus and other respiratory infections, placing additional strain on already stretched emergency departments, ambulance services and inpatient wards.
Staffing shortages – intensified by sickness absence – and increased bed occupancy often lead to delays in patient flow, treatment backlogs and heightened risks for vulnerable groups.
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Mask-wearing, once rare outside clinical settings, became a familiar part of daily life during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the public were required to cover their faces in hospitals, shops and public transport.
While most restrictions were lifted in the years that followed, many infection-control specialists warned that seasonal re-adoption of masks in healthcare settings could become a routine part of managing winter pressures.
Both health boards’ announcements reflect this shift, signalling an openness to reinstating targeted measures when viral circulation rises.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg emphasised that the renewed rules are not solely about individual protection but about safeguarding those at highest risk.
“Wearing a mask isn’t just about protecting yourself from winter illnesses; it’s about protecting those around you for whom these viruses might be more dangerous,” a spokesperson said.
Aneurin Bevan reiterated that community cooperation remains crucial. With hospitals across Wales already experiencing heavy demand, both boards said preventive measures – including masks, hygiene and vaccination – are essential to preventing further strain on frontline services.