What does B Harrington, who complains about nurses who travel too and fro from hospital in their uniforms (Jan 4), expect staff to do - go home naked?

The only instruction Southend Hospital gives to its staff is that they should cover their uniforms with a coat so as not to attract adverse comment. That's good for PR, but of course pointless if there really is an infection risk and uncomfortable for staff in hot weather.

The hospital does not launder uniforms on the premises - it expects staff to take them home and clean them using ordinary washing facilities.

The writer's perceived fear of catching something from a nurse on a bus or in the street is nothing compared to what nurses risk in caring for others every day of their lives. He or she should be grateful.

P Robinson
Ashingdon Road
Rochford