Hospital urges people to stay away if they have the 'winter vomiting bug'
Cambridge University Hospitals is asking people who have had sickness or diarrhoea to stay away from hospital until they have been symptom free for 48hrs to stop the bug from spreading.
A number of wards closed to admission and restricted visiting times in place to help stop the spread of winter vomiting bug (Norovirus).
Cambridge University Hospital’s Medical Director, Dr Jag Ahluwalia, said: “We are urging people with sickness or diarrhoea, or if you’ve been in contact with someone who has, to stay away from the hospital.
“We have two children’s wards and adult areas closed because the infection was brought into the hospital from the community. If you do need to come to hospital urgently, it’s important that you inform us if you or any family members have symptoms of Norovirus.
“We’re already experiencing a high demand with 327 patients attending our A&E department yesterday and having wards closed due to the winter vomiting bug is not helping our capacity issues.
“We have visiting restrictions in place to protect patients and visitors but it’s important that everyone stays vigilant. The message is clear - if you feel sick or have diarrhoea stay away.”
Visiting restrictions currently in place at CUH:
If a bay or ward is closed due to Norovirus visitors are not allowed in
Do not come to hospital if you, or someone you’ve been in contact with, until you’ve been symptom free for 48 hours
Only two visitors per patient are allowed on the wards at any one time
Children should not visit wards unless arranged with the Nurse in charge of the ward.
Protect yourself from this bug:
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water (alcohol gel won’t protect you against sickness and diarrhoea)
If you have sickness and diarrhoea please stay at home – don’t come to hospital wash your hands regularly with soap and water (alcohol gel won’t protect you against sickness and diarrhoea)
If necessary seek medical help by telephoning your GP, your local pharmacist or dial 111.