PEOPLE wishing to see loved ones at the George Eliot Hospital are being urged to stay away.
The Nuneaton NHS Trust has suspended visiting until until the end of the week due to sickness and diarrhoea.
So far the outbreak has hit four wards, but bosses are keen to ensure that it spreads no further and hope that members of the public understand the need for restrictions.
Special arrangements will be made for those needing to spend time with seriously ill or injured patients on compassionate grounds.
People are asked to call 024 7635 1351 and speak to the ward in question before setting out.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of sickness and diarrhoea should steer clear for 48 hours after they have subsided.
Only birth partners are allowed to call in at Maternity, to ensure the outbreak does not affect the very young or vulnerable.
And parents will only be allowed access to Caterina children’s ward and the Neonatal department.
“Visiting at George Eliot Hospital has been suspended for the rest of the week following an outbreak of sickness and diarrhoea on four wards,” explained a spokesperson for the Trust.
“Visits to patients will continue to be allowed on compassionate grounds.
“Anyone wishing to make such a visit should contact the appropriate ward prior to their arrival at the hospital.
“Anyone suffering from sickness and diarrhoea is being urged not to attend the hospital unless they need emergency medical attention.
“Anyone suffering from such symptoms who needs advice should contact their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.” The situation will be reviewed Friday afternoon.
General visiting times are normally from 3pm to4pm and 7pm to 8pm.
Caterina ward has open visiting for parents, and other visitors can usually go along in between 2pm and 4pm and 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
Normally there is open visiting for critically ill patients in Intensive Care.
