Norovirus closes hospital wards (From The Oxford Times)

Norovirus closes hospital wards

10:24am Tuesday 9th February 2010 in

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Two wards are closed and one partially closed at Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital because of an outbreak of the Norovirus.

The virus, which results in severe diarrhoea and vomiting, is common in the winter and can be spread from an infected person by consuming contaminated food or water or by contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

The Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals trust said both patients and hospital staff are being affected and has taken the measure of closing two short stay medical wards, 6B and 6C, and partially close an acute general medical ward, 7A .

A spokesman said: “The Trust has robust plans in place to help contain the virus and to make sure that the hospital runs as smoothly as possible.

“This includes closing wards to new admissions to limit the spread of the disease and limiting the movement of patients and staff within those areas.

“Regular, additional cleaning will continue to take place.

“Patients ready for discharge will be able to go home if they are well but those leaving our hospital to continue their treatment elsewhere, may need to stay a little longer to make sure they are not affected by the bug.”

Visitors are still allowed to the wards but are advised to wash their hands before and after visiting.