OVER the past year, this region has had one of the highest numbers of Norovirus outbreaks in the country, new figures have shown.

There were 81 outbreaks which resulted in a ward or bay closing in the 12 months before August this year in the Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire region.

This figure was surpassed only by Yorkshire and the Humber region which had 94 over the same period.

There have not been any closures at the Great Western Hospital in recent months but warnings are being sent out to urge people to take precautions against the seasonal illness.

Lisa Hocking, lead nurse practitioner for infection and prevention control, said: “Norovirus is very common at this time of year and is easily spread in places such as hospitals, schools and care homes.

“There has been no recent outbreak at the Great Western Hospital, however we are well prepared to stop the virus spreading, should an outbreak occur.”

Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is highly contagious and cases tend to surge at this time of year.

Symptoms include the sudden onset of vomiting, diarrhoea and a mild temperature. Due to the ease at which it can spread, GWH has asked people to take extra precautions when they visit and if they have any symptoms, to stay away.

Lisa said: “To protect our patients and staff we ask all visitors to the hospital to wash their hands thoroughly before arrival and to make use of the alcohol hand gel which is available outside every ward and unit.

“Any person who has experienced either vomiting or diarrhoea within the last 48 hours, or who has been in contact with someone suffering from these symptoms, should not visit the hospital.”

Cherry Jones, acting director for public health at Swindon Borough Council, said: “Norovirus is highly contagious. Unfortunately outbreaks in public places, such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools, are common because the virus can survive for several days on surfaces or objects touched by an infected person.

“We are writing to all schools and care homes in the borough with information and advice about how to help reduce the spread of the norovirus this winter. GPs, community nurses and pharmacies are also receiving information.

“We’re pleased that there have been no recent reported outbreaks at the Great Western Hospital.

“However, we urge everyone to remain vigilant and take the appropriate precautions to minimise risk of both catching and spreading the unpleasant condition, which results in the sudden onset of sickness and/or diarrhoea.”