Norwich hospital reopens to visitors

Dan GrimmerThe Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is now open to visitors for the first time in two weeks - but people are being warned to 'remain vigilant at all times'.Dan Grimmer

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is now open to visitors for the first time in two weeks - but people are being warned to 'remain vigilant at all times'.

Visitors have been banned from the hospital since January 11 due to an outbreak of a severe winter vomiting bug which - at its peak - hit more than 50 patients.

There are still about 12 cases of the stomach bug, known as the norovirus, but health chiefs yesterday lifted the ban and said these are contained cases and it is now sufficiently under control and safe for people to visit.

The norovirus causes nausea and diarrhoea and is very easily spread from person to person with the spread of infection easiest in places where group of people are in close proximity such as residential homes, schools, hospitals and workplaces.

Andrew Stronach, spokesman for the N&N, said : 'Wards are now re-open to visitors but we need people to be vigilant with hand hygiene.

'It is very important that people wash their hands when they come and visit. It is also highly important that people realise that with this stomach bug it can still be passed on, even if some one has symptoms that have subsided.

'So if you have had the bug we urge you not to visit the hospital for up to three days afterwards. This will help stop it spreading again.

'Also if people have not had the bug but have been in close proximity with some one who has they need to also follow the same guidelines and ensure they wash their hands with warm water and soap when visiting.'