Norovirus outbreak under control

Rochdale Infirmary

Following an outbreak of the Norovirus at Rochdale Infirmary over the weekend, the Pennine Acute Hospitals Trust has confirmed that all affected wards are now re-open except one ward, Stonehill.

A spokesperson for The Pennine Acute Hospitals NSH Trust said: “Due to the concerted efforts by staff over the weekend, the Trust has managed the outbreak very well and has thoroughly cleaned down and promptly disinfected the contaminated areas, returning most wards to normal with little disruption caused to patients.

“However, the Trust is still advising patients and visitors to be vigilant. Norovirus is still very much in the community. Anyone who has been ill with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting must not visit hospital unless necessary until they are symptom-free. People usually recover fully within 2-3 days.”

Dr Sheila Will, Director of Public Health at NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said: “The best advice to protect you and your family from Norovirus is to make sure you wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, particularly before eating. Using a good household cleaning product on hard surfaces at home will also help.

“We would ask anyone who has Norovirus infection not to call 999, not to go to an A&E department, and not to visit their GP surgery as this risks spreading it to other people, patients and NHS staff. It is important for people to drink plenty of fluids. Your GP or local pharmacist will be able to give you advice over the phone, or you can contact NHS Direct for advice."