Chief Nurse thanks Islanders for their co-operation

Action to control cases of suspected Norovirus at St. Mary’s Hospital, Isle of Wight appears to have been effective but visiting restrictions will remain in place throughout the winter.   NHS Isle of Wight Chief Nurse Carol Alstrom says: “We’re grateful to everyone who has closely followed the hand hygiene controls at St. Mary’s and also refrained from visiting the hospital unless they have been clear of the symptoms of norovirus for at least 48 hours.  We recognise that having a loved one in hospital is difficult for both family and friends, particularly during this festive season, but no one wants to bring a bug into hospital or pass it on to someone.”

Last week a number of patients developed symptoms associated with norovirus (viral gastroenteritis).  It is thought that the bug may have been brought in by a visitor with a child.   To control the outbreak patients were isolated to try and reduce the risk of the infection spreading.  Areas affected were closed to new patients for deep cleaning, however routine admissions to St. Mary’s continued as normal.   All the affected areas have now reopened.

Carol continued: “Restricted visiting hours are being kept in place throughout the winter. The restricted hours help us to keep nasty bugs out of the hospital.  I would particularly urge parents to carefully consider whether or not young children should accompany them when visiting.   Whilst patients will be pleased with a visit from children we don’t unfortunately have the facilities to keep them occupied.”

Good hygiene is important during outbreaks of norovirus as it is highly contagious.  To prevent becoming infected it is very important to wash your hands with soap and water after you have been around someone who is ill – either or at home or in a healthcare setting.  Thorough cleaning of hard surfaces with a bleach solution, paying particular attention to the toilet and toilet area will help to reduce the spread of the virus.
Restricted visiting times at St. Mary’s Hospital, which were introduced at the beginning of December, at the hospital are 2-3pm and 7-8pm.   All visitors are asked to cleanse their hands on entering and leaving the hospital and also when they visit or leave a ward or clinic area. Visitors should refrain from sitting on beds and use the chairs allocated to visitors.

It is vital that anyone who is feeling unwell with Norovirus should not visit hospitals and spread the infection to staff and patients. Keeping hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids is very important, particularly for the elderly and the very young who are most at risk.  If the symptoms persist, telephone either NHS Direct (0845 4647) or out of hours contact the Island’s Health Line (0845 6031 007). Further details of symptoms are available on the NHS Direct website www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.