Hospital restricts visitors due to norovirus

An increased number of norovirus cases has led a Surrey hospital to ask people not to attend unless they have an urgent clinical need.

East Surrey Hospital said on Wednesday temporary changes were also being made to people visiting patients.

In a statement, the hospital said: "Due to an increased number of norovirus cases, please do not visit East Surrey Hospital unless you have an urgent clinical need and especially if you are experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting, or have experienced any symptoms in the last 48 hours."

The hospital said the request was in place to help control the spread of norovirus and keep patients safe.

Visitors to certain wards were also being restricted, the hospital said, unless approved by the ward manager in exceptional circumstances.

The affected wards are the acute medical unit (AMU), Meadvale, Abinger, Smallfield, Godstone, the inpatient rehabilitation unit (IRU), and Capel.

In all other areas, visits are limited to one person per patient per day, but restrictions do not apply to paediatric, maternity or end-of-life patients.

Norovirus is the most common cause of infectious diarrhoea and vomiting in England and Wales, according to the NHS.

It can be transmitted by contact with contaminated surfaces and objects, and people usually recover fully within two-three days.

Ed Cetti, chief medical officer for Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, said patient safety was the "top priority" and that measures would ensure the continued safe treatment of those with urgent and life-threatening injuries or illnesses as quickly as possible.

The decision to restrict ward visitors had not been taken lightly and would be kept under close review, he said.

"We know how important visitors are to those recovering in hospital," he added.

"There is more information about visiting, as well as the alternative urgent care options available locally if your condition isn't life-threatening, available on our website."

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, and on X. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.