Help us to reduce the risk of passing on norovirus

7 December 2010

As is normal at this time of year, norovirus is circulating within the community and some of our inpatient wards are affected. 

Visiting may be restricted in areas experiencing norovirus – we will try to contact a patient’s next of kin to inform them of any restrictions in advance, but if you are unsure please check before visiting.  

Norovirus is also known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ and is commonplace within the community at this time of year. Symptoms include diarrhoea and vomiting and can be passed from person to person. If you're visiting our hospitals please help us to reduce the risk of norovirus infections by ensuring you stay away if you have had these symptoms in the last 48 hours, or have been in contact with someone who has. Visitors can also help by ensuring they wash their hands well with warm soapy water.

If you are a patient due to come into hospital and have not had these symptoms in the last 48 hours there is no need to change your arrangements. However, if you have suffered from these symptoms in the last 48 hours please contact the ward or department you are due to visit to rearrange your appointment or inpatient stay, if necessary. Our staff will advise you.

Medical advice for those with norovirus is to rest at home, avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids and eat foods such as rice, soup, pasta or bread, which are easy to digest.

To contact any of our hospitals click here. For general advice on norovirus click here for information from NHS Direct.