As the holidays are fast approaching, visiting family is on the top of many people's minds.

That's especially true for those who may not be able to see their family members very often, in the case of those who are stuck in a hospital.

Visitation rules are tight right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic since a single infection can be devastating for some people.

Put in place by the Saskatchewan Health Authority, St. Joseph's Hospital requires proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID test, with the exception of visitors visiting palliative or critical patients.

In the special care home, patients are allowed to have 4 visitors, with the same proof of vaccination or negative test requirements, though with proper screening some people may be allowed in.

For those who can't visit, the hospital puts on an event to help spread the Christmas cheer.

St. Joseph's Hospital Executive Director Greg Hoffort details their usual Christmas meal.

"In our special care home we have an annual Christmas supper and that will be going ahead for the residents of the special care home and patients in the hospital," said Hoffort, "It will be following the Saskatchewan Health Authority policies."

That means that staff will be doing just as much work during the holidays, which Hoffort says is admirable work.

"It's busy times, but everyone's getting ready for Christmas," said Hoffort, "In health care, there are no days off for our staff. They perform admirably every day of the year and Christmas is no exception, so there'll be a full staff on tending to the needs of our community right through the Christmas season."