NON-URGENT surgery is being kept under close review at Colchester Hospital as staff work hard to contain the latest wave of coronavirus cases.

The hospital confirmed it is currently treating 50 patients who have tested positive for Covid-19.

Three hospitals in Essex have stopped non-urgent operations due to a spike in virus cases.

An email, sent by senior staff at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said stopping non-urgent activity will help keep Southend, Basildon and Broomfield hospitals safe.

Nick Hulme, chief executive of East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Colchester Hospital, said staff are prepared for an “inevitable” surge of activity over the winter months.

He said: “Our staff have been working tirelessly and at pace across our services and hospital sites to prepare for the inevitable surge of activity – both Covid and non-Covid related – we expect over the winter in the coming weeks and months.

“Everyone has come together across the trust and has worked incredibly hard to make these preparations.

“We can’t thank them enough for everything they have done, and continue to do, every day for the communities we serve.

“We are determined to keep all of our services going, but we are keeping our routine and elective surgery under close and regular review at Colchester Hospital as this latest wave of coronavirus cases continues.”

Mr Hulme offered reassurance over cancer care and urgent surgery, which he pledged will continue.

He also called for people in Colchester to celebrate with caution over the festive period.

Mr Hulme said: “It remains vital that anyone who is worried about any symptoms they’re experiencing visits their GP urgently.

“The trust delivered the most first treatments for patients referred on a two week wait cancer pathway in September and October – more than any other trust in the country – we are committed to maintaining these high standards of care.

“As we go into the Christmas period I would urge everyone to take great care, enjoy the festive season safely and continue to follow all the safety advice.

“We must all do our bit to stop the spread of coronavirus.

“Reduce the contact you have with other people outside your own household, keep your distance if you’re out and about, wear a face mask and wash your hands regularly.”

In south Essex, Basildon currently has the third highest Covid rating in England with 696.4 cases per 100,000.

Basildon Council has warned a Nightingale-style field hospital could be needed in Essex if bed capacity runs short.