An outbreak of Norovirus has been reported in Royal Bournemouth Hospital. The viral outbreak has resulted in the complete closure of wards 4,5,27 and 28 to visitors. Hospital authorities have confirmed that the virus has been contained in the ward areas. It does not pose any threat to other departments especially those awaiting surgery or procedures. However only the next of kin are permitted to visit patients in the hospital as a precautionary measure.

As per Belinda Atkinson who is the Director of Nursing, all necessary precautions have been taken to contain the outbreak including imposition of restrictions on visitors and closure of affected wards. Vomiting and diarrhoea as well as other symptoms results from this viral infection. A general caution has been given to the general public to desist visiting the hospital in case the symptoms have been observed in the past two days. People with out patient appointments as well as those due for admission have been asked to exercise caution and inform the clinic concerned regarding the symptoms if observed.

All visitors are also being asked to apply hand gel on entering and while leaving the hospital.