A Norovirus outbreak has been confirmed on Ward 6 at Westmorland General Hospital in Kendal.
Angela Richards, Matron for Infection Prevention and Control, at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT), said: “I can confirm that the Norovirus has caused sickness and/or diarrhea amongst patients and staff on Ward 6 at WGH."
Norovirus is a common cause for diarrhoea and / or vomiting and is often referred to as the ‘winter vomiting bug’ because it has, historically been more common in winter, although Norovirus does circulate throughout the year.
Whilst visiting to Ward 6 at WGH is not affected, friends and relatives visiting their loved ones are being advised by Matron Richards not to visit any UHMBT hospital or clinic if they have suffered symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours; not to visit with young children; only two visitors to a bed; to remember to hand wash with soap and water on entrance to and exit from the ward area; and only visit their own relatives/friends and not to visit communal areas within the hospital.
She added: “Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in closed environments such as hospitals, schools and care homes. Diarrhoea and vomiting can be spread through contact with an infected person, by contact with contaminated surfaces or by consuming contaminated food or water.
“We hope we can resolve this outbreak on Ward 6 quickly and I would like to apologise for any disruptions caused to patients or visitors during this time.”
Updates will be posted here.