Norovirus closes ward at Bedford hospital

A ward at Bedford Hospital has been hit by an outbreak of viral gastroenteritis, caused by norovirus.

The Richard Wells Ward is closed to new admissions and transfers, to help stop the potential spread of infection.

Visiting is restricted to one person per patient per day and people are advised to telephone the ward before coming to the hospital.

A spokesperson for the hospital said it was vital that visitors observed the restrictions.

The highly contagious norovirus causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

The symptoms begin about 12 to 48 hours after infection and usually last for 12 to 60 hours.

Director of Nursing and Patient Services Eiri Jones, said: "We are doing our utmost to prevent norovirus spreading across the hospital.

"Please help us by observing visiting restrictions, not visiting if it's not essential for you to do so, ensuring you wash your hands with soap and water, not sitting on beds and not coming in if you have been ill yourself."