Joy as two nurses at Luton & Dunstable Hospital discharged from intensive care after suffering Covid-19

Senior ward sisters Nora Burnell and Katherine Demeter were both seriously unwell in the hospital’s critical care department, with severe symptoms of coronavirus.

Both were treated in intensive care – in Nora’s case for three weeks – but they recovered enough to go home within a day of each other at the end of last week.

Mobile phone footage captured joyous scenes in the hospital as colleagues got word and lined up to clap and cheer as Nora left the hospital in a wheelchair.

The video has since gone viral on social media.

David Carter, chief executive of Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “The discharges of Nora and Katherine are right among the most uplifting events for all of us since the beginning of this crisis.

“This week, along with the wonderful birthday celebrations for Captain Tom Moore – another of our patients – at Bedford Hospital, has been some cause for optimism in what has been a difficult time for everyone.”

No new deaths from coronavirus have been recorded at Luton and Dunstable Hospital over the weekend, according to the latest NHS England figures. The statistics show 182 people have died at the hospital so far during the pandemic.

At the time of press, a total of 628 people had been confirmed as testing positive for coronavirus in Luton, increasing by just two from the previous day.

This means that cases have increased by less than 0.5% over the previous 24 hours, lower than the rate of increase across the UK of 2%.

Mr Carter paid tribute to the contribution of the L&D Hospital staff and their families.

He said: “I’d like to thank all my staff for their outstanding efforts, but I’d also like to thank the families of those who work at the trust.

“Their support, commitment and understanding helps our people come to work, and do their very best to take care of others at this difficult time.”

The public and local businesses were also thanked for their generosity throughout this period.

Mr Carter added: “The commitment of local residents to staying at home has undoubtedly saved lives in Luton and Bedfordshire.

“Your continued support is hugely valued and needed – thank you.”