There has been a steep increase in norovirus cases in hospitals, adding pressure on services amid ‘exceptional demand’
Hospitals across Wales are asking the public to stay at home for 48 hours due to a highly infectious virus spreading. It comes as multiple Welsh hospitals declared critical incidents, with health bosses warning the public that A&E departments are exceptionally busy and wards are “very full”.
On Monday, a number of health boards said the sickness and diarrhoea bug norovirus is spreading within hospitals and communities, adding to the already-significant pressures on their services. Health board bosses urged members of the public not to visit hospitals if they had experienced symptoms within the last 48 hours.
Swansea Bay University Health Board said it had made the decision to temporarily close some wards at Morriston Hospital to visitors due to the spread of the virus.
Norovirus is a sickness bug is also known as the winter vomiting bug as it is common in the colder months of the year in the UK. It is a highly-infectious type of gastro-enteritis that is easily passed on to others
Symptoms usually start within one or two days of becoming infected and can last a few days. You will remain contagious for up to 72 hours after your last symptoms. Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here
The stomach bug can be very unpleasant, but the NHS say it usually gets better in about two days. It advises anyone who is unwell with the bug to stay well hydrated by drinking small amounts often.
As well as the outbreak at Morriston Hospital, both Cwm Taf Morgannwg and Aneurin Bevan University Health Boards, which serve communities across south Wales, said their hospitals have been impacted by the spread of norovirus.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTMUHB) said the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend had been hit particularly bad by the virus.
Health board bosses have issued a direct plea to visitors to stay at home if they have had symptoms of norovirus in the last 48 hours.
CTMUHB said: “Norovirus (diarrhoea and vomiting) is currently circulating in our communities. A number of our hospitals are affected, particularly Princess of Wales Hospital.
“Please do not visit any of our hospitals if you have had diarrhoea and or vomiting in the last 48 hours or have been caring for someone with these symptoms during the last 72 hours.
“Norovirus can be treated at home with hydration and rest. If you have symptoms of norovirus, stay home for 48 hours after they clear.”
Health boards have given the following guidance to help prevent the spread of infection:
- Stay home for 48 hours after symptoms clear.
- Wash hands with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based gels are ineffective against norovirus.
- Don’t prepare food for others.
