‘Stay away’ warning after Norovirus confirmed at Dewsbury Hospital

There have been confirmed cases of the highly-contagious bug on the wards at the hospital, and Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust is urging people with symptoms to stay away from visiting friends or family to avoid spreading it further.

The disease has also been confirmed on wards at Wakefield’s Pinderfields Hospital.

Dr Lucia Paraja-Cebrian, Consultant Microbiologist, said: “Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is common and we take a number of measures to help stop the spread of it in our hospitals.

“One of the most effective ways of stopping the spread is for people with symptoms of norovirus to stay away from visiting friends and family in our hospital. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headaches and abdominal pains.

“We know how important visiting times are for patients and their families and friends but it is important that they help us to stop the spread of the virus by not visiting until they are free from symptoms for at least 48 hours. This is especially important as some patients may have underlying health conditions and already be vulnerable.

“It’s also important that when visiting our hospitals, either as a patient or visitor, that you regularly wash your hands using soap and water and follow any infection prevention advice you are given by staff.

“If you need advice it is best to phone NHS 111 or your doctor.”

There is no treatment for the winter vomiting virus.