A WARD has been closed at Hereford County Hospital after a visitor brought the Norovirus onto the site.

Health bosses have banned visiting to Frome Ward to prevent the further spread of diarrhoea and vomiting which is affecting some patients.

Alison Johnson, consultant microbiologist at Hereford County Hospital, said: “Relatives, carers or anyone with diarrhoea and/or vomiting should not visit wards or any areas of our hospitals until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours.

“This kind of outbreak can put vulnerable patients at risk and cause unnecessary illness for other patients who we are caring for.

“Visitors to all areas of the hospital are requested to practice good hand hygiene and use the alcohol gels available in all wards/departments in order to prevent any further spread of infection”.

The Trust has thanked visitors for their understanding while emphasising that the restrictions are in place to protect patients as part of a zero tolerance approach to healthcare associated infections.

The Trust said that although people usually recover without treatment in 24 to 72 hours, it is important to stay away from work, school, college or any social gatherings until they have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.