Glasgow 2014: Norovirus cases at athletes' village increase to 32

Competitors have already started to arrive at the Commonwealth Games athletes' village

A suspected norovirus outbreak at the Commonwealth Games athletes' village in Glasgow has affected a further 20 people.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said the number of workers suffering from the outbreak of the diarrhoea and vomiting bug had risen to 32.

The discovery of 12 cases was announced on Wednesday, and another 20 have been identified over the last 24 hours.

Doctors said none of the infected staff were giving cause for concern.

In a statement, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: "Twenty additional members of the workforce at the Commonwealth Games Village have been reported as experiencing mild gastrointestinal symptoms.

"All 20 have been told to remain at home until they have been clear of symptoms for 48 hours.

"The Public Health Protection Unit of NHSGGC has been made aware of all the cases and is working closely with the Games organisers and Health Protection Scotland on local infection control measures at the village to minimise risk."

Control measures

The board stressed that, despite these steps, it could not say there would be no additional cases among those exposed to the virus before infection control measures were introduced at the site at Dalmarnock.

Dr Catriona Milosevic, consultant in public health medicine, said: "Norovirus is the most common stomach bug in the UK and it is common to see the virus in the community.

"It's usually mild and generally lasts for 24 hours.

"The symptoms being experienced by these individuals are mild and none are giving any cause for concern as a result of the virus.

"Village residents and workforce have been informed and issued with health information. There have been no reports from athletes or team officials and the village is open and operating as normal.

"We are continuing to monitor the situation closely."

The opening ceremony for Glasgow 2014 takes place at Celtic Park on 23 July, with the Games closing on 3 August.