HOSPITAL wards have been shut to visitors after an outbreak of the vomiting bug norovirus.

Both wards at Ross-on-Wye Community Hospital were shut at the end of last week, due to cases of diarrhoea and vomiting caused by the virus.

Hospital staff hope closing the Merlin and Peregrin wards will prevent the further spread of diarrhoea and vomiting which is affecting some patients.

A spokesman for the Wye Valley NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, said: "This kind of outbreak comes from within the community and is often seen this time of year. The chance of it spreading to patients and visitors and other areas of the hospital is reduced by restricting visitors.

"It is very important that any visitors with diarrhoea and/or vomiting do not visit other areas of the hospital until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours.

"Visitors are requested to practice good hand hygiene and use the alcohol gels available in all wards/departments in order to prevent any further spread of infection.

"Wye Valley NHS Trust wishes to thank all visitors for their understanding during this period and to emphasise that these restrictions are in place to protect our patients, as part of a zero tolerance approach to healthcare associated infections."

The Trust has also issued advice to help stop norovirus spreading. Advice includes:

- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water, particularly after using the toilet, and before preparing food. If you’re in an NHS facility pay attention to hand hygiene notices such as using hand gel upon entering and leaving a ward.

- Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated with a norovirus. It is best to use a bleach-based household cleaner. Always follow the instructions on the cleaning product.

- Flush away any infected faeces or vomit in the toilet. You should also keep the surrounding toilet area clean and hygienic.

- Wash any clothing, or linens, which could have become contaminated with a norovirus. Washing with hot, soapy water will help to ensure that the virus is killed.

- Although people usually recover without treatment in 24-72 hours, it is important to stay away from work, school, college or any social gatherings until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.