Norovirus outbreak at Royal Lancaster Infirmary

The Royal Lancaster Infirmary has confirmed an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug, norovirus.

University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust said the virus was affecting eight wards.

The affected wards are restricting admissions to new patients to prevent the spread of the infection.

Visitors are being asked to stay away from the hospital unless absolutely necessary in an effort to help control the outbreak.

Peter Dyer, medical director at the trust, said: "We need to take some simple precautions in order to protect our patients and limit the spread of these bugs.

"If you have to visit, please ensure that you contact ward staff to discuss before you visit and do not bring any babies, children or vulnerable people with you.

"This is especially important if you are planning on visiting intensive care units, small babies, children or people undergoing treatment for cancer or blood disorders."

The bug - which causes vomiting, stomach cramps, fever and diarrhoea - is easily spread from person to person.

Symptoms usually begin between 12 to 48 hours after a person becomes infected with most healthy people making a recovery within one to three days.