Vomiting bug outbreak closes four wards at York Hospital (From York Press)

Vomiting bug outbreak closes four wards at York Hospital

4:34pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in News By Richard Catton, Health reporter

HOSPITAL staff are currently battling to contain a stomach virus which has closed four wards at York Hospital.

An urgent plea has been issued from the Hospital Trust asking people who have been unwell not to visit friends and family at the hospital.

Libby McManus, chief nurse, said: “We have had instances recently where visitors have vomited whilst on our wards, placing patients and staff at risk and causing us to close further ward areas at a time when the hospital is particularly busy.

"Closing wards helps us to contain the virus but visitors can play a big part by staying away if possible. We would urge visitors to think carefully before paying any non-essential visits at this time.

“We are specifically asking people who have been unwell not to visit the hospital until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours. This is really important because the virus is highly infectious. The virus is easily spread by contact with an infected person, especially through their hands.

“If you do have to visit someone in hospital we ask that you follow guidance, which includes always washing your hands before and after visiting and use the hand sanitizer gel. This is to keep the virus contained and to help visitors to keep themselves safe as well as their friends or relatives.”

Patients’ friends and relatives can call the hospital before visiting to find out if a particular ward is affected, and up-to-date information about closures is also available on display screens in the main and south entrance.