More norovirus visiting restrictions at county hospitals

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VISITORS are being urged to stay away from Worcestershire's hospitals after another norovirus outbreak.

Visiting at the Alexandra Hospital is restricted to exceptional circumstances only as some wards are closed due to bug, while the Worcestershire Royal and Kidderminster Hospital are allowing only immediate family and a maximum of two visitors per patient.

Among the wards affected are wards 12 and 14 at the Alex.

It comes just days after visiting restrictions were lifted after a previous outbreak.

Anyone with norovirus symptoms, such as diarrhoea and vomiting, should stay at home and call their GP or NHS Direct, rather than risk transmitting the infection further.

There is no specific treatment for norovirus, apart from letting the illness run its course, but there are some simple infection control procedures to follow:

· Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

· Wash hands thoroughly after using the toilet.

· Food preparation for others should be avoided until 48 hours after symptoms have subsided.

· Telephone your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 for advice if the symptoms do not quickly subside or any additional concerns arise.

For the latest information on visiting restrictions, visit www.worcsacute.nhs.uk

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