STAFF at Barrow's hospital have issued a warning after an outbreak of sickness and diarrhoea hit one of their wards.

The outbreak was confirmed by medics after patients from Ward Nine at Furness General Hospital complained of symptoms.

Joanne Gaffing, infection prevention and tissue viability matron, at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, said: "There are symptoms of sickness and/or diarrhoea among some patients on Ward Nine at FGH.

"Diarrhoea and vomiting 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."

While the ward remains open to visitors, hospital staff have issued the following advice:

- Do not visit any UHMBT hospital or clinic if you have suffered symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours.

- Do not visit with young children.

- Only two visitors to a bed.

- Remember to hand wash with soap and water on entrance to and exit from the ward area.

- Only visit their your own relatives/friends and do not visit communal areas within the hospital.