Norovirus-hit Rosebank ward remains closed at CGH
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STAFF at Caithness General Hospital have warned locals not to visit patients if they have shown any signs of vomiting or diarrhoea.
NHS Highland issued the warning after it was forced to shut the Wick hospital’s Rosebank ward after six patients and seven staff came into contact with the norovirus (the winter vomiting bug).
The ward remains closed to new admissions since last Wednesday after the outbreak was discovered. It is believed to have been brought in from outside the hospital.
The ward will not be reopened until staff are confident the virus is gone.
Dr Emma Watson, lead infection control doctor for NHS Highland, asked the public to think twice before visiting.
"If you or a family member has had these symptoms, please do not come in," she said.
"By doing this we will be able to limit the spread as much as possible. If you are booked to come into hospital as an elective patient and have had diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting within the previous 48 hours, contact either your GP or the ward for advice before attending at the hospital."
Two wards at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness have also been closed after 32 patients and 16 hospital staff came into contact with the norovirus.
