Norovirus (sickness and diarrhoea)

Norovirus is a highly infectious bug which causes sickness and diarrhoea.  Although the symptoms are short-lived, they can be very unpleasant. The virus is highly infectious and easily spread from person to person in several ways, but particularly through contaminated hands, food or water.

It is present in the community all year round, but outbreaks tend to be more frequent during the winter months. Norovirus can affect anyone, and can close hospital wards, nursing homes and schools. If it gets into a hospital, it can have a big impact because spreads so quickly.

During the winter months (November to March) when norovirus is usually more active in the local community and schools, we ask that children aged 11 and under (except on the children’s and maternity wards) do not visit patients in hospital unless absolutely necessary.

Remember:

  • Please do not visit hospital if you have had any symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting in the last two days
  • If visiting anyone in hospital, please clean your hands with the alcohol gel at the entrance to the ward or department.

You can find out more about norovirus and how to treat it on the NHS website or call NHS 111.

Current norovirus ward restrictions

If norovirus does affect our patients, it may be necessary to put in place visiting restrictions on affected wards. The care of our patients is always at the heart of any decisions we make, and we would ask for your patience with the difficulties that an outbreak of norovirus in hospital causes.

There are currently no restrictions in place due to norovirus.