NHS eases mask wearing rules

As of Tuesday, 27 January 2026, East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust has stepped down its enhanced mask-wearing measures for patients, visitors, and staff

The decision follows a reduction in flu and respiratory cases presenting at the Trust’s emergency departments. 

Key Changes to Guidance:

• Routine Use: Patients and visitors are no longer routinely asked or expected to wear masks in Emergency Departments or on wards.
• Personal Choice: Anyone who still wishes to wear a mask is welcome to do so.
• Clinical Exceptions: Standard NHS procedures for wearing masks as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) remain in place for staff delivering care or in high-risk transmission areas. 

The Trust oversees several facilities, including Eastbourne District General Hospital, Conquest Hospital in Hastings, and Bexhill Hospital. For the most current ward-specific updates, you can check the official East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust news page