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NHS Forth Valley is asking visitors to Stirling Royal Infirmary to stay away from Wards 8 and 9 unless absolutely necessary because of an outbreak of the winter vomiting virus. A total of 16 patients are affected and the two wards have been closed to new admissions as a result. Although the illness is short lived it can make people feel quite poorly.
Extra infection control measures have been put in place and an outbreak control team has been convened to manage the situation.
Dr Anne Maree Wallace, NHS Forth Valley Director of Public Health said: This illness is very common during the colder months. Although norovirus does not cause serious problems in healthy individuals it does cause problems in hospitals where it can spread rapidly. It is highly infectious in children who have a tendency to touch surfaces and then put their hands in their mouths."
There is no specific treatment for norovirus other than rest and lots of drinks to replace lost fluids. People who are otherwise fit and healthy will make a full recovery without medical intervention. It is unnecessary for people with norovirus infection to visit GP surgeries or hospital accident and emergency. If symptoms persist or seem to be getting worse, patients should phone NHS 24 or ask for a telephone consultation with their GP.
Dr Wallace added: " Small children should not be taken to wards to visit sick relatives as the infection spreads rapidly in closed environments. Visitors should ensure they wash their hands when they arrive at wards and before leaving, and, if at all possible, children should not visit at this time."