Two wards at Noble’s Hospital remain closed to new admissions as a precaution following an outbreak of sickness and diarrhoea.

Norovirus has been confirmed in ward eight and gastroenteritis is suspected in ward five. On Friday ward eight partially reopened but ward five remained closed.

A hospital spokesman said there was no blanket ban on visiting but people are being advised not to go there unless absolutely necessary and children under 12 should not be taken on hospital visits at present.

Margaret Knight, who is lead nurse for infection prevention and control said such outbreaks can be commonplace at this time of year and handwashing in hot, soapy water should be a matter of routine to help prevent their spread.

’During Norovirus outbreaks, we ask people to wash their hands instead of using hand sanitiser. To keep Norovirus out of hospitals, it is important that people do not visit patients if they have been ill with a stomach bug in the previous three days or in close contact with someone who has had sickness or diarrhoea.’

Because of the closures, there is pressure on the remaining beds. Anyone suffering from a vomiting bug should avoid A and E if possible. People will be notified if their operation is cancelled. No update has yet been issued.