Concerns over spread of norovirus at West Sussex hospitals
Visitors to both sites are being urged to take precautions
Last updated 9th Jul 2024
A Sussex hospital trust has issued a warning about the spread of the vomiting bug norovirus in its wards.
A&E departments at St Richard's Hospital in Chichester and Worthing Hospital are said to be very busy.
The bug can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, a high temperature and a headache.
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs both sites, is urging visitors to their sites to take precautions in order to prevent patients from being infected.
Those with planned procedures and operations have been urged to let hospitals know if they are feeling unwell before attending them.
A spokesperson for the Trust said:
"Norovirus is in the community so for all visitors to our hospitals, please wash your hands with soap and water before visiting and leaving the wards.
"Do not visit our hospitals if you have had any kind of sickness and/or diarrhoea until 48 hours after your last symptoms.
"If you are due to come into hospital for a procedure and have been unwell, please call before you come in.
"Thank you for your support in helping us to help you."