NHS Fife has asked people to only visit family and friends in hospital if it is essential.
The plea by director of nursing Helen Buchanan came as the health board announced restrictions to visiting times at all its hospitals in a bid to limit the spread of coronavirus and protect vulnerable patients.
From Tuesday, visiting will be restricted to 7pm to 8pm with just two visitors allowed per bed.
Young children will no longer be allowed to visit wards.
The update to previous advice was announced late on Monday afternoon.
Ms Buchanan said: “The safety of our patients and staff is paramount and it is crucial that we take all reasonable steps to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmission in our hospitals.
“We believe this is a sensible precaution in managing this evolving situation.
“Those in our hospitals are very often the most vulnerable to infection; therefore, we are asking people to think very carefully before choosing to visit their family members and friends.
“Please only visit if this is essential, and then only do so between 7pm and 8pm.”
She added: “Most importantly, if you have any flu-like symptoms, a cough, a fever or a cold – or if you generally feel unwell – do not visit our hospitals until you are well and are no longer demonstrating such symptoms.”
There will be a small number of exceptions to visiting hours, including in neonatal, maternity and children’s wards.
NHS Fife has also asked visitors to always use hand gel when entering or leaving wards.
