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Norovirus - please follow our infection control procedures

08 March 2024

 

If you are visiting our hospital, it is essential that you follow our infection control procedures at all times.

Norovirus is circulating in the community and we currently have a ward affected by the illness. Norovirus, also called the "winter vomiting bug", is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about two days. However, Norovirus poses risks for vulnerable people, including patients in hospitals.

Therefore, we are taking precautions to restrict any possible spread - and need the help of anyone planning to visit our hospital.

Please do not visit patients if you have had sickness/diarrhoea, for at least 48 hours after the symptoms have passed.

Only visit if you consider it necessary - and only visit one ward.

In addition, we are having to restrict the numbers of people who visit a patient to two at any one time.

Hand washing with soap and water is crucial in stopping the spread of Norovirus (alcohol gels do not work) - so, if you are visiting, please ensure you use the hand washing stations in the foyer before entering the hospital.

Thank you for your help.

A photograph of the handwashing station in our hospital foyer. This features a large sign with white writing on a blue background 'Hand decontamination area' and two sinks, with two soap dispensers, two gel dispensers, two paper towel holders and two bins.