This in from the IW NHS, in their own words. Ed
Visitors are being asked to help stop the spread of Norovirus at St Mary’s Hospital by staying away if they have had any symptoms of the illness within the last 48 hours.
A number of patients are currently affected by diarrhoea and vomiting on Whippingham and Luccombe wards. Anyone wanting to visit either ward is being asked to do so only if essential, and only by prior arrangement with the ward Matron. No children (aged 16 and under) or elderly or vulnerable adults should visit either ward.
Deputy Director of Nursing, Sarah Johnston, said:
“It is absolutely vital that anyone who is feeling unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea, and is planning to visit the hospital, stays at home for at least 48 hours after the symptoms stop. Keep hydrated and drink plenty of fluids, particularly if you are elderly or very young. And if your symptoms persist, you should phone the NHS 111 helpline for advice, or visit your pharmacy or GP.”
Earlier this month, two bays on the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) had to be closed due to the virus. However, MAU is no longer affected by the illness.
Keep your hands clean
Good hand hygiene using soap and water is important during outbreaks of norovirus as it is highly contagious. Thorough cleaning of hard surfaces with a bleach solution, paying particular attention to the toilet and toilet area, will help to reduce the spread of the virus.
