PEOPLE have been urged to avoid visiting St Mary's Hospital and care homes across the Isle of Wight following an outbreak of vomiting and diarrhoea in the community.
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust said it was aware of a number of cases circulating in the community, and warned people not to visit the hospital or other healthcare facilities until they had been clear of symptoms for at least 48 hours so they did not pass the highly contagious symptoms on to vulnerable people and staff.
Karen Robinson, consultant nurse in infection prevention and control at Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “Handwashing is the effective counter measure for D&V. Everyone visiting the hospital or other healthcare facility for any reason is encouraged to make use of the hand washing facilities and hand gel.
“This is not only to protect patients who are vulnerable, but also our staff who are needed to deliver our services.”
For those with symptoms of D&V keeping hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids is very important, particularly for the elderly and the very young that are most at risk, the trust said.
If the symptoms persist, call NHS 111. Further details of symptoms are available on the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk.