Norovirus suspected on seven wards at Warwick Hospital

The norovirus bug has now been confirmed, or is suspected, on seven wards at Warwick Hospital.

However, South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, has said it will not restrict visiting hours during Christmas.

The Malins, Nicholas, Mary, Charlecote, Beaumont, Squire and Victoria wards are those affected.

Rules must be followed if people do decide to visit during the outbreak, the trust added.

These include washing hands before and after visiting wards. People have been advised to wear aprons and gloves if requested by ward staff.

The trust said people should not visit the hospital if they have had diarrhoea or sickness in the last 48 hours "or have been in contact with someone that has".

It added: "Visitors are reminded that norovirus is extremely easy to catch and by visiting affected wards you will be putting yourself at risk of catching the virus, which can then be easily spread to your family, friends and colleagues."