NHS Western Isles provides update on norovirus measures

NHS Western Isles is continuing to manage cases of norovirus, commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug', within Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway and is asking the public for their support in helping to prevent further spread.

Following ongoing assessment of the situation, Medical Ward 2 at Western Isles Hospital, Stornoway, has now also been closed to new admissions until further notice. Surgical Ward remains closed to new admissions.

To help protect patients and reduce the risk of further transmission, ‘essential visiting only' remains in place across Western Isles Hospital.

Essential visitors are those whose presence is important to a patient's care, wellbeing or support, including relatives of patients receiving end-of-life care, parents of children in hospital, and carers supporting vulnerable patients.

An Incident Management Team (IMT) continues to oversee the response and ensure that all necessary infection prevention and control measures are in place and being closely monitored.

Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly from person to person through close contact, contaminated surfaces and contaminated food. Symptoms include sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhoea, stomach cramps, headache, aching limbs and, in some cases, a mild fever.

The public is reminded not to visit hospitals or care homes if they have symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea, or if they have had symptoms within the previous 48 hours.

Frances Robertson, Nurse and AHP Director/Chief Operating Officer, NHS Western Isles, said: “Our priority is to protect patients, residents and staff and to minimise the spread of infection within our healthcare settings. We appreciate the public's understanding and cooperation while these restrictions remain in place.

“If you have symptoms of norovirus, please stay at home, rest, keep well hydrated and avoid visiting hospitals, care homes or other healthcare settings until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have completely stopped."

NHS Western Isles continues to advise anyone experiencing symptoms to:

• Stay at home and avoid contact with others where possible.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Wash hands regularly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food.
• Avoid preparing food for others while unwell.
• Do not visit hospitals or care homes until at least 48 hours after symptoms have completely stopped.

Anyone concerned about their symptoms, or who is unable to keep fluids down, should contact NHS 24 on 111 or their GP practice for advice.