NHS Western Isles is offering advice to the public, to help prevent the spread of seasonal norovirus.
Islanders are urged to take precautions to avoid catching or spreading the winter vomiting bug to others.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that spreads through direct contact, from contaminated surfaces including food, and from vomit droplets.
The first sign is usually a sudden sick feeling, followed by forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
Symptoms usually last a couple of days, although this can be longer in elderly people. People are most likely to spread infection when they have symptoms, and for up to 48 hours after the symptoms have gone. It is more serious and even more easily spread among people who are already ill.
NHS Western Isles issues norovirus advice
28 November 2017
Visitors to hospitals and care homes in the Western Isles are specifically being asked to wash their hands with soap and water before and after visiting.
They should stay at home if they have experienced any norovirus symptoms for 48 hours after the last symptom.
NHS Western Isles Infection Control Manager, Janice Mackay, said: “Norovirus is the most common stomach bug in the UK, affecting people of all ages every year. The virus is easily spread by contact with an infected person, especially through their hands.
“As the infection is so contagious, we would urge members of the public to ensure they follow infection control practices, and good hand hygiene is key to preventing the spread of infection.”