West Suffolk Hospital wards closed by norovirus outbreak

Two hospital wards in Bury St Edmunds have been closed to new admissions after 16 patients showed symptoms of the diarrhoea and vomiting norovirus.

Thirteen patients were affected on ward F10 at the West Suffolk Hospital leading to restrictions being put in place on Sunday.

A further three patients have now been affected on ward G4.

Visitors are still allowed in the evenings, but they are being urged to wash their hands.

Enhanced cleaning is also being carried out, the hospital said.

Sue Partridge, deputy infection control doctor, said: "Norovirus is very infectious and every year there are cases in the community which transfer to the hospital.

"We would advise anyone who has had diarrhoea or vomiting to stay away from the hospital for at least 72 hours after they have recovered, even if they feel better."