NOROVIRUS symptoms have been confirmed on several wards this week at Furness General Hospital.

Following outbreaks of the virus earlier this week on wards two and seven, the bug which causes diarrhoea and vomiting has been confirmed on ward four.

Angela Coton, Matron for Infection Prevention and Control, at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT), said: “Norovirus has caused sickness and or diarrhoea amongst some patients and staff on Wards two, four and seven at

FGH.

“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 Wards two, four and seven is still an option, friends and relatives visiting their loved ones are being advised:

* 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.

* Only visit their own relatives/friends and not to visit communal areas within the hospital.

Ms Coton added: "Norovirus 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. I would ask that public and staff support us and I would like to apologise for any disruptions caused to patients or visitors during this time."