Surgical Ward reopens while restrictions remain in Medical Ward 2

Surgical Ward in the Western Isles Hospital has reopened to new admissions following an outbreak of Norovirus. Normal visiting arrangements have resumed in both Surgical Ward and Medical Ward 1.

Medical Ward 2 remains closed to admissions and is restricted to essential visiting only. 

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. Please contact the ward and speak to the nurse in charge if you are unsure.

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.

To help protect vulnerable patients and prevent further spread of infection, members of the public are urged not to visit hospitals or care homes if they are experiencing symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea, or if they have had symptoms within the previous 48 hours.

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.

NHS Western Isles would like to thank patients, visitors and staff for their continued cooperation and understanding as measures remain in place to help prevent the spread of infection and protect patients and healthcare workers.