Visiting restrictions protect patients against norovirus

Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge is seeing a rise in cases of norovirus, the bug which causes diarrhoea and vomiting.

To protect patients, it is important that members of the public do not come to hospital if they have diarrhoea or are being sick. If you think you have norovirus – or if anyone else in your household is affected – then do not visit hospital until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have disappeared.

Visiting times on all adult wards – not just those where there are patients with norovirus – are now restricted and details are on the Trust website. Only two adult visitors per patient will be allowed at any one time, and children will not be allowed to enter wards unless their visit is essential.

No visitors will be allowed on closed wards except by prior arrangement in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning a visit, call (01223) 245151 to check if a ward is affected.

 Medical director, Ashley Shaw said: “We hope people understand that the reason we put these restrictions in place is to help protect our patients by stopping the spread of this virus.

 “The best treatment for the virus is to rest at home and drink plenty of fluids. In otherwise healthy people, it normally clears up after around 48 hours – but if you are concerned or you have other health problems, speak to your GP or NHS Direct."



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