VISITING has been completely suspended at Arrowe Park Hospital after an outbreak of vomiting bug Norovirus.

Restrictions were been put in place yesterday on five wards - 21, 24, 25, 26 and 27 - of the hospital in a bid to stop the spread of the illness.

The winter vomiting bug or Norovirus is the most common stomach bug in the UK and is currently circulating widely on Wirral. It is highly contagious and affects people of all ages.

Hospital bosses urged those suffering with symptoms to avoid attending the emergency department but today, a spokesman for Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Trust – which operates Arrowe Park – said they have seen an increase in the number of people attending the emergency department with such symptoms.

People with symptoms of sickness and diarrhoea within the last 48 hours are again being urged to avoid A&E unless it is a genuine emergency with all visiting now suspended to the hospital.

A spokesman said: “Despite an appeal put out yesterday we have in fact seen an increase in the number of people coming into our emergency department with symptoms of Norovirus.

"We therefore wish to repeat our appeal not to come to A&E if you have had symptoms of sickness and diarrhoea within the last 48 hours unless it is a genuine emergency.

“Unfortunately this highly contagious sickness bug has taken hold in the community and people are
bringing it into our hospitals where sick and vulnerable patients will be exposed to it.

“To further contain and prevent the spread of this highly contagious sickness bug and to protect patients we are now suspending all visiting to Arrowe Park Hospital except in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of Ward Sisters or nurse in charge.

“We appreciate that this may upset some patients and their friends and families but hope they will appreciate that this action is being taken in the best interests of patient care."

Symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Some people may have a temperature, headache and stomach cramps.

There is no treatment but it is important to keep hydrated to combat the loss of fluids.

Most people will recover within a few days and there are no long-term effects.

Dr Sue Wells, medical director of NHS Wirral Clinical Commissioning Group, said the virus was easily spread. 

She said: "You can help stop the virus spreading by washing your hands frequently, not sharing towels and flannels and disinfecting surfaces that an infected person has touched.  

"If you have norovirus, you may continue to be infectious for a short period after your symptoms stop. You should therefore avoid preparing food and direct contact with others for at least 48 hours after your symptoms disappear.

“Although norovirus can be very unpleasant, it is not usually dangerous and most people make a full recovery within a couple of days without having to see their GP. H

"However, people should contact their GP practice for advice if their symptoms last longer than a few days, if they already have a serious illness or parents have concerns regarding a young baby.

"Extra care should be taken to prevent babies and small children who have diarrhoea and vomiting from becoming dehydrated by giving them plenty of fluids. Babies and young children can still drink milk.”

If you are visiting friends and family at Arrowe Park Hospital on any other wards, you are advised to:

  • Avoid visiting if you are unwell or if you have been in contact with anyone who has e.g. with diarrhoea and vomiting
     
  • Use the hand gels provided when you come into hospital and on leaving
     
  • Remember that if you have had flu or Norovirus, or have been seen in contact with anyone who has, please do not visit loved ones in hospital until you are symptom free for at least 48 hours.

Norovirus’ symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Some people may have a temperature, headache and stomach cramps.

The illness usually resolves in one or two days and there are no long‐term effects.

You can follow these simple steps to help:

1. Take plenty of fluids
2. Wash your hands regularly
3. Keep yourself away from others – especially from GP surgeries or hospitals
4. If your symptoms continue for more than two days seek advice from NHS 111 by calling 111
on your phone or visit the NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk) for further information.