Vomiting bug at Stornoway hospital

Vomiting bug hits hopsital

3 June 2015

Restricted visiting measures have been implemented at Western Isles Hospital in Stornoway, as a result of a suspected outbreak of norovirus.

Visiting to Medical Ward 2 has been suspended temporarily as a small number of patients and staff have been experiencing symptoms of norovirus - commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug.’

Symptomatic patients have been isolated in single rooms. The ward has also been closed until further notice to new admissions.

Visitors to any other areas of the hospital are specifically being reminded to wash their hands with soap and water before and after visiting, and to stay at home if they have experienced any norovirus symptoms for 48 hours after the last symptom.

Norovirus is usually self-limiting and will disappear after a day or two. However, people can remain infectious for at least three days, after symptoms resolve.

Symptoms commonly include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and low-grade fever or chills.

Headache and muscle aches and tiredness are other features.