Countess of Chester Hospital warns visiting restrictions could be in place over festive period

Dec 15 2011 by Gary Porter, Chester Chronicle

RESTRICTIONS on patient visits could remain in force over the festive period following an outbreak of vomiting and diarrhoea, the Countess of Chester Hospital has warned.

Visitors to all wards must make an appointment through the nurse in charge before arriving as the hospital takes steps to protect patients and staff.

Bosses at the Countess were forced to put visiting restrictions and infection control measures in place at the weekend in order to contain the outbreak.

Cases of diarrhoea and vomiting, which traditionally increase at this time of year, are caused by two types of virus – Norovirus and Rotavirus.

Dr John Croall, who is a consultant microbiologist at the Countess, said: “We are asking for the help of everyone visiting the hospital to keep the bugs out.

“If these bugs get into a hospital they can make people who are already poorly seriously ill, particularly older people and those who have long-term health conditions.

“These bugs can pass quickly between visitors, patients and staff.

“We have policies in place to de-contaminate ward areas, but these can take a few days to have an impact.”

He added: “Winter is always a busy time for us and the last thing we need is staff off ill, beds unavailable and appointments being postponed.

“What’s more, we might have to restrict visiting over the Christmas period, meaning patients could have a lonely time over Christmas and New Year.”

Although not all wards have been affected by the outbreak, the decision to restrict visiting was made as a precautionary measure to avoid it from spreading.

Dr Croall said: “If you have been sick or had diarrhoea within the last 48 hours then please do not visit the hospital.”

For information on the visiting restrictions www. coch.nhs.uk.