Raigmore Hospital sickness number rises to 50, but hospital wide visiting ban partially lifted
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THE number of patients caught up in a norovirus outbreak at Raigmore Hospital has risen to 50 - but a hospital wide ban on visitors has been partially lifted.
NHS Highland took the decision to re-open the hospital to visitors this afternoon after no new wards were affected by the virus, which causes sickness and diarrhoea.
But a ban on visitors remains in force for the three affected wards - 7C, 2A and 2C.
And the number of patients suffering from the virus has risen by three, to 50.
He said: “I would like to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding over the past few days when we restricted all visiting. This was to try, as much as we possibly could, to reduce any further outbreaks of norovirus in the hospital.
“While I am pleased that we have been able to reopen to visiting we know norovirus is still in the community so would ask that visitors are limited to two per patient and that if you, or anyone you live with, has had symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting you refrain from coming into the hospital until you are clear for 72 hours.”
There is no specific treatment for a norovirus infection and it is not usually necessary to visit a doctor. The best course of action is to stay at home and to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Iona McGauran, lead nurse for Raigmore Hospital, said: “I would also like to thank the public for their support over the weekend when we suspended visiting. It was not a decision we took lightly and their understanding is appreciated.
“Visiting remains restricted to our affected wards which helps hospital staff protect the health, privacy and dignity of our patients.
“Hospital staff will of course be very happy to talk to visitors on the phone so they can get updates on how their relatives are.”
The public can help to minimise the spread by avoiding the hospital if you or someone you live with has symptoms. People who have been ill with the virus should also wait until they have been clear of symptoms for three days, as they may still be contagious even if they feel fine.
For more information about hand hygiene visit the Scottish National Hand Hygiene Campaign website www.washyourhandsofthem.com
