Norovirus back at Alex

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

Visiting at the Alexandra Hospital and Worcestershire Royal is restricted to immediate family and a maximum of two visitors per patient.

Ward 2 at the Alexandra is also limited to exceptional circumstances only.

Helen Blanchard, chief nursing officer for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust said: "Norovirus is highly infectious illness and easily passed on so we are continuing to ask visitors to think carefully before visiting patients in hospital.

"By reducing the number of visitors to hospital we can make real progress in bringing a virus that can complicate a patient’s medical condition and increase their hospital stay under control.”

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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