A WARD at St Mary's Hospital has been closed due to patients showing Norovirus symptoms.
A number of patients on the acute medical ward have suffered with vomiting and diarrhoea in the last 24 hours, and hospital bosses have decided to close the ward to new admissions.
An Isle of Wight NHS Trust spokesman said: "There is strong evidence in these cases, and from past Norovirus incidents, that the virus is brought into hospital by either unwell patients or visitors.
"The trust has been concerned about the rise in reported cases of the virus in the community, as reported nationally by the Health Protection Agency, and issued a reminder before Christmas about the need for Islanders to maintain good hand and personal hygiene.
"The trust took immediate action to close the ward to new admissions but, subject to ongoing review, we expect the ward to re-open to new admissions tomorrow (Saturday).
"Those planning to visit Appley Ward should only do so if it is essential and this will be at the discretion of ward staff. No children aged 16 and under or elderly or vulnerable adults, such as those with existing long term conditions, should visit Appley Ward."