3rd Raigmore Ward Closed Due To Suspected Norovirus

Ward 5C has been shut to new admissions after 2 patients showed symptoms of the vomiting bug.

Published 21st Apr 2015

A 3rd ward at the north's biggest hospital has been closed due to suspected Norovirus.

Ward 5C at Raigmore Hospital was shut today after 2 patients showed signs of the vomiting bug.

Ward's 2C and 7C were closed as 26 patients were confirmed as having Norovirus.

Dr Adam Brown, Consultant Microbiologist for NHS Highland, said: “We are being cautious by closing 5C but we know norovirus is in the community and would rather be over cautious while we assess the situation.

“By restricting visiting to the affected area it helps hospital staff protect the health, privacy and dignity of our patients.

“Again we would stress that people do not come to the hospital/s to visit if they have, or live with someone who has, had any vomiting or diarrhoea within the previous 48hrs.

"By doing this we will be able to limit the spread as much as possible.

“Hospital staff will of course be very happy to talk to visitors on the phone so they can get updates on how their relatives are.”