Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is asking people not to visit patients if they have experienced vomiting or diarrhoea within the last 48 hours, or have been in contact with anyone suffering from the symptoms.

Norovirus is a stomach bug which is common in the community at this time of year and can affect people of all ages. It can spread quickly in places where there are lots of people, such as hotels, restaurants, nursing homes and schools.

Lisa Hocking, Infection Prevention and Control Lead Nurse, said: “Please help us protect patients, staff and other visitors, by washing your hands thoroughly and using the alcohol hand gel available outside every ward and department.

“Norovirus is easily spread, and you can still pass it to others for up to two days after symptoms have cleared.

“So, even if you’re feeling better, if you’ve experienced vomiting or diarrhoea within the last 48 hours or have been in contact with anyone else with the symptoms, please don’t come into hospital.”
  
What to do if you’re showing symptoms of norovirus
  
•    Don’t visit friends or relatives in hospital or in care homes.
•    Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice.
•    Stay away from work or school, until free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.
•    Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water regularly, particularly after toilet visits and before eating.
•    Stay at home and avoid contact with others where possible.
•    Don’t handle or prepare food for other people until you have been symptom free for at least 48 hours.

The Trust is also asking people not to visit patients in hospital if they are suffering from any other potentially infectious disease, such as flu.