Belford Hospital in the Highlands has been forced to lockdown its wards due to a norovirus outbreak, with new patient admissions halted and visitor numbers restricted.
The hospital, which is part of NHS Highland, has taken the precautionary measure to limit the spread of the highly contagious virus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea. According to a spokesperson for NHS Highland, both wards in Belford Hospital have been closed to new admissions due to the outbreak.
“We have had to close both wards in Belford Hospital to new admissions due to norovirus,” the spokesperson said. “Restricted visiting is also in place but please contact staff on the ward if you feel your visit is necessary and they will be able to advise.”
The spokesperson also urged visitors to refrain from visiting the hospital if they or someone they live with has symptoms of diarrhoea and/or vomiting. “We would also ask that if you or someone you live with has symptoms of diarrhoea and/or vomiting you refrain from visiting a health or social care setting until clear for 48 hours,” they said.
Norovirus, often referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is a stomach ailment that can be extremely uncomfortable, though it usually resolves within two days, according to NHS guidelines. The primary symptoms of norovirus appear suddenly and can include feeling sick, being sick (vomiting), diarrhoea, a high temperature, a headache, tummy pain, and body aches and pains.
The Daily Star reports that people, including children, who contract norovirus can typically manage their symptoms at home. The NHS advises that recovery usually occurs within two to three days. Those who have or suspect they have norovirus should stay at home and get plenty of rest, ensure they’re consuming plenty of fluids like water or squash – take small sips if nausea is present, continue to breastfeed or bottle feed their baby – if they’re vomiting, consider giving smaller feeds more frequently, and eat when they feel up to it – avoiding fatty or spicy foods may be beneficial.
The NHS also provides further advice for those with norovirus, including avoiding fruit juice or fizzy drinks – these can exacerbate diarrhoea, not diluting baby formula – use it at its standard strength, refraining from giving children under 12 medicine to stop diarrhoea, and not administering aspirin to children under 16.
As the situation continues to unfold, Daily Star will provide updates on the norovirus outbreak at Belford Hospital.
In the meantime, NHS Highland is urging visitors to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. The hospital has been working to control the outbreak and prevent further cases.
The lockdown at Belford Hospital is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of patients and staff. The hospital will remain open and continue to provide essential services, albeit with restricted visiting and new patient admissions.
NHS Highland has apologised for any inconvenience this may cause and is working to resolve the situation as quickly as possible. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The outbreak at Belford Hospital serves as a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to prevent the spread of norovirus. By following the advice of NHS Highland and taking steps to prevent the spread of the virus, we can all play a role in controlling the outbreak and protecting patients and staff.
For more information on norovirus, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention, visit the NHS website.
Source: Daily Star
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