SOUTHMEAD Hospital has set up a decontamination room for anyone suspected of having Ebola.

With several reported cases from western countries, the team at the hospital is preparing for the worst.

As well as setting up an internal decontamination room in its emergency department, staff working in pathology, microbiology and the emergency department have been given training in how to respond if an Ebola case is suspected.

The decontamination room has been prepared in the event of a patient being suspected of having the disease and staff will be provided with protective clothing and equipment for treating any suspected case.

If a patient tests positive for Ebola the trust will contact the Royal Free Hospital, in London, and take advice from them.

Staff at Southmead would then expect the patient to then be transferred to the London site.

Dr Chris Burton, medical director for the NHS Trust which runs Southmead Hospital, said: “North Bristol NHS Trust has been following national guidance around Ebola and making plans in line with Public Health England and Department of Health advice.

“Contingency plans are in place and have been walked through with relevant staff. If and when guidance changes we will respond accordingly.”