BOTH wards at Ross Community hospital have been closed to visitors since last Friday (December 30) after an outbreak of sickness and diarrhoea caused by norovirus.

A spokesman for the Wye Valley NHS Trust said: “As a preventative measure visiting Merlin ward and Peregrine ward at Ross Community hospital has been stopped to prevent the further spread of diarrhoea and vomiting which is affecting some patients.

“This kind of outbreak comes from within the community and is often seen at this time of year.

“Experience has shown that restricting visiting can lessen the chance of spread to both patients and visitors and other areas of the hospital.”

The restrictions on visiting the wards at the hospital will remain in place until health chiefs are satisfied no further patients are at risk.

The hospital will have to be ‘deep cleaned’ and it is hoped it will be reopened later this week.

The trust says it is important that anyone who has had vomiting and /or diarrhoea should not visit any part of the hospital until they have been clear of symptoms for 48 hours.

It says the restrictions are part of a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to healthcare-associated infections.

People are being asked not to visit the hospital unless they really have to.

Young children, vulnerable elderly visitors and anyone who has had sickness and diarrhoea in the previous 48 hours should avoid visiting hospital.

Advice to people to help stop the norovirus spreading includes:

•Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water, particularly after using the toilet, and before preparing food. If you’re in an NHS facility pay attention to hand hygiene notices such as using hand gel upon entering and leaving a ward.

•Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated with a norovirus. It is best to use a bleach-based household cleaner. Always follow the instructions on the cleaning product.

Flush away any infected faeces or vomit in the toilet. You should also keep the surrounding toilet area clean and hygienic.

•Wash any clothing, or linens, which could have become contaminated with a norovirus. Washing with hot, soapy water will help to ensure that the virus is killed.

People affected by norovirus usually recover without treatment in 24 to 72 hours although doctors say it is important to stay away from work, school, college or any social gatherings until there have been no symptoms for at least 48 hours.