An outbreak of the sickness bug Norovirus has led to the closure of a ward at Hereford County Hospital.

Wye Valley NHS Trust confirmed on today (Wednesday, May 8) that Frome Ward, which specifically cares for acute respiratory patients, is closed due to cases of Norovirus which was brought onto the ward by a visitor.

Visiting has been stopped to prevent the further spread of diarrhoea and vomiting which is affecting some patients.

Alison Johnson, consultant microbiologist at Hereford County Hospital, said: “Relatives, carers or anyone with diarrhoea and/or vomiting should not visit wards or any areas of our hospitals until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours.

“This kind of outbreak can put vulnerable patients at risk and cause unnecessary illness for other patients who we are caring for."

She added: “Visitors to all areas of the hospital are requested to practice good hand hygiene and use the alcohol gels available in all wards/departments in order to prevent any further spread of infection”.

Although people usually recover without treatment in 24 to 72 hours, the Trust says it is important to stay away from work, school, college or any social gatherings until visitors have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.

Wye Valley NHS Trust provides hospital care and community services to more than 40,000 people in mid Powys.