A major norovirus has broken out across multiple Welsh hospitals and prompted a UK health board to stop all hospital visits to their eight hospitals immediately
A major norovirus outbreak prompts UK health board to stops all hospital visits immediately.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (UHB), which runs eight hospitals and multiple health centres, have announced a no visiting policy due to a norovirus outbreak. The UHB said that the virus has affected a number of wards and resulted in a series of bed closures.
In a statement, Cardiff and Vale UHB said: “Over the last week, we have seen a significant increase in Norovirus cases across our hospital sites. The impact of the Norovirus outbreak has affected a number of wards and resulted in a series of bed closures which is causing exceptional pressure on the system.”
The statement continued: “As a result of this challenging position, we have made the difficult decision to implement a No Visiting Policy and close the Health Board to all general visiting to manage this outbreak.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly, but one that is imperative to protect our patients, staff and visitors and reduce the spread of infection.”
Cardiff and Vale UHB manage the following hospitals in and around the capital: University Hospital of Wales, University Hospital Llandough. UHL Ward Visiting Times. Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales, Barry Hospital, St David’s Hospital, Hafan y Coed Mental Health Unit, Cardiff Royal Infirmary and the University Dental Hospital.
Exceptions will be considered in some cases, notably for those at the Children’s Hospital and patients who are receiving end of life care.
The UHB stressed that the policy does not affect outpatient appointments. If patients have appointments, these will be going ahead unless you are contacted by the department directly to explain otherwise.
They have also stressed that anyone visiting the hospitals is expected to maintain good hygiene practice by washing their hands thoroughly with soap and water and by adhering to infection prevention and control precautions. Those who are feeling unwell are being asked to remain at home until you have been clear of symptoms for at least 48 hours.
The health board said: “Most norovirus cases can be managed at home with rest, fluids and self-care and symptoms typically improve within 2 to 3 days.
“If you are unsure of your symptoms, you can check them using the NHS 111 Wales online symptom checker, which has a wealth of information, advice and guidance for a range of different conditions.
“If you think you need urgent healthcare advice or to access out-of-hours services, please call 111 first and speak with a clinician. Please remember, our Emergency Unit should only be used for emergencies.”
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