This in from the IW NHS, in their own words. Ed
Despite a reduction over the weekend additional cases of suspected Norovirus at St Mary’s have been identified in the last 12 hours.
This includes the transfer of the virus from visitor to patient because the visitor was ill on a ward.
If you have symptoms do not visit patients
We would like to remind members of the public that it is vitally important for those who have been unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea recently, especially if they have had these symptoms in the past 48 hours, to stop visiting patients, relative or friends whether they be in hospital or nursing or residential care home.
Carol Alstrom, Chief Nurse commented, “I would like to advise members of the public not to visit St Mary’s unless it is essential. I would also strongly encourage parents to not bring young children in to the hospital to visit friends and family at this time as we know anecdotally that Norovirus has been circulating in Schools.
“Whilst we recognise that children and relatives alike want to see each other the adult wards in St. Mary’s are not designed for children who can easily get bored.”
“We have also now introduced visiting restrictions in the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU), Whippingham and St. Helens wards, where visiting will be at the discretion of the nurse in charge. If you do have to visit the hospital for any reason please make use of the hand gel and hand washing facilities provided. This is not only to protect patients who are vulnerable, but also our staff who are needed to deliver our services. Viral gastroenteritis is highly infectious.”
Avoid the spread of infection
It is vital that anyone who is feeling unwell with vomiting and/or diarrhoea, planning to visit their friend or relative in hospital, nursing or a residential home, stays at home for at least 48 hours after the symptoms stop to avoid the spread of infection.
Keeping hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids is very important, particularly for the elderly and the very young who are most at risk.
If the symptoms persist, telephone NHS 111. Further details of symptoms are available on the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk.
Norovirus is highly contagious
Good hygiene is important during outbreaks of norovirus as it is highly contagious. To prevent becoming infected it is very important to wash your hands with soap and water after you have been around someone who is ill.
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.
Image: SCA Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolage under CC BY 2.0
