Gazette News
Six wards close at Royal Lancaster Infirmary after norovirus strikes
5:00pm Tuesday 21st February 2012
SIX wards have closed at Royal Lancaster Infirmary after an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug.
University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Trust (UHMBT) has asked members of the public not to visit relatives and friends at the hospital to help stop the spread of norovirus.
Affected wards have adopted a restricted admissions policy, while the public have been warned not to visit if they have been sick or had diarrhoea in the last 48 hours.
UHMBT medical director Peter Dyer said: “We need to take some simple precautions in order to protect our patients and limit the spread of these bugs.
“If you have any symptoms of a virus such as a runny nose, sore throat, high temperature, diarrhoea or vomiting, do not visit the hospital unless absolutely necessary. If you have to visit, please ensure that you contact ward staff to discuss before you visit and do not bring any babies, children or vulnerable people with you. This is especially important if you are planning on visiting intensive care units, small babies, children or people undergoing treatment for cancer or blood disorders.”
The Norovirus illness does not last long and people usually recover between 12 and 60 hours without treatment other than rest and lots of fluids.
Anyone with concerns should call NHS Direct on 0845-4647.