Norovirus outbreak closes Western Isles hospital wards amid diarrhoea and vomiting warning

An outbreak of norovirus has closed wards at a hospital in the Western Isles.

Following the outbreak of the virus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, medical ward 2 at Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway has been closed to new admissions.

The surgical ward also remains closed to new admissions to help protect patients and reduce the risk of further transmission.

Essential visiting only remains in place across the hospital, including those relatives of patients receiving end-of-life care, parents of children in hospital, and carers supporting vulnerable patients.

NHS Western Isles says an Incident Management Team (IMT) continues to oversee the response.

Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly from person to person through close contact, contaminated surfaces and contaminated food.

Symptoms include sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhoea, stomach cramps, headache, aching limbs and, in some cases, a mild fever.

The public is reminded not to visit hospitals or care homes if they have symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea, or if they have had symptoms within the previous 48 hours.

Frances Robertson, nurse and AHP director/chief operating officer, NHS Western Isles, said: “Our priority is to protect patients, residents and staff and to minimise the spread of infection within our healthcare settings. We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation while these restrictions remain in place.

“If you have symptoms of norovirus, please stay at home, rest, keep well hydrated and avoid visiting hospitals, care homes or other healthcare settings until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have completely stopped.”