Western Trust increases infection control measures after vomiting outbreak

The Western Health and Social Care Trust has increased infection control measures at two Derry hospitals following an upsurge in vomiting and diarrhoea among patients.

Two wards at Altnagelvin Hospital and one at Waterside Hospital have reported an increase of the illness among patients. 

A Spokesperson for the Western Trust said:

“Norovirus has been confirmed has the cause of vomiting and diarrhoea in one of these wards. Norovirus is otherwise known as the winter vomiting virus, it is an unpleasant, yet common illness. Symptoms are usually of short duration.

“Ward 42 at Altnagelvin Hospital and Ward 3 at Waterside Hospital have been temporarily closed to new admissions. Ward 3 at Altnagelvin Hospital has some bed closures.

"The Trust's Infection Prevention and Control team is continuing to provide advice to staff and increased infection control measures have been put in place.”

It's thought that the upsurge is consistent with an increase of the illness in the wider community. 

People are being advised to avoid visiting the hospital if they are feeling unwell, particularly if they are suffering from diarrhoea or vomiting.

The spokesperson continued: “Those who are visiting are asked to thoroughly wash their hands before and after visiting. Visitors should visit only one patient whilst at the hospital, refrain from sitting on hospital beds and not move from ward to ward when visiting.”