Warning over spread of norovirus in Jersey

People in Jersey have been warned to stay at home to stop the spread of the winter vomiting bug norovirus.

Bartlett Ward and the dining room at Jersey Hospital have closed to stop the spread of the virus, which has affected patients and about 30 staff.

Dr Susan Turnbull, medical officer of health, said it was highly contagious, but had no long-term effects.

She advised anyone with symptoms, which include vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps, to stay at home.

Dr Turnbull said they should not go to the hospital or a GP surgery, as they may infect others, and should not return to work or school until all symptoms had passed for 48 hours.

She said: "Most people usually recover fully within two-to-three days. The best advice is to keep as well hydrated as possible, by drinking little and often.

"Unless there is severe dehydration, it is very unusual to need hospital treatment in people who are normally healthy.

"People with pre-existing serious medical conditions should, as with any new symptoms, seek early advice from their GP.

"Even for the previously healthy, if vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms persist for more than three or four days, then medical advice should be sought from a GP.

"But please don't go to the GP's surgery, and especially not to the hospital unless specifically advised by a doctor to do so."