Norovirus hits hospital again

Palmerston North Hospital has norovirus again and visitors are being asked to stay away as managers work to contain the bug.

There have been 13 patients and 11 staff affected in the latest Ward 26 outbreak of a tummy bug, presumed to be norovirus.

Earlier outbreaks this year have made 88 patients and 240 staff sick and caused the postponement of 31 major operations.

People who have been sick with vomiting or diarrhoea are being asked to stay away from the hospital until 48 hours after symptoms stop. Other visitors are being restricted to visiting hours, 2pm to 8pm daily.

Handwashing remains the best way to reduce the spread of the infection, with handwashing stations set up at the front entrance, outside each ward and elsewhere around the hospital. Visitors are expected to use them, particularly as they enter and leave.

A drop off and collection point for patient property is available at the entrance to wards.

People with out-patient appointments and those needing to go to the Emergency Department should continue to go to the hospital as usual.

- © Fairfax NZ News