Norovirus shuts four wards at Dr Gray's
NHS Grampian has said 4 wards at Dr Gray's in Elgin are closed to new patients and most visitors after an outbreak of norovirus.
23 patients and staff are affected.
The health board says the outbreak, combined with the pressures of Covid, mean only life-threatening conditions will be treated at A&E at the hospital.
Alasdair Pattinson, Hospital Manager at Dr Gray's, said: “Due to a norovirus outbreak at Dr Gray’s Hospital, affecting a combined total of 23 patients & staff, four wards have been closed to new admissions.
"This, coupled with existing Covid-19 pressures, has put the hospital under severe pressure due to a lack of beds to admit new patients to.
“For the time being, at our Emergency Department in Elgin, we will only be able to treat those with life-threatening conditions. Patients in these situations should continue to immediately call 999.
“We would assure the public that those facing life-threatening situations are continuing to be seen rapidly for life-saving treatment, as an absolute priority.
“It is vital that, in order to assist us, other members of the public call NHS 24 on 111 prior to coming to hospital.
"Anyone attending at ED may well be redirected to 111 or another appropriate service. Those directed to hospital by 111 will unfortunately face a lengthy wait to be seen. This may also have an impact on access to wider NHS Grampian health and social care services.
"Unfortunately the affected wards - which are wards 1, 5, 6 and 8 - are also closed to all visitors except those receiving end of life care. If you feel it is essential to visit one of these wards this weekend, please contact the nurse in charge of the appropriate ward in advance to discuss the most appropriate option.
“We would like to apologise for the significant inconvenience this will cause some people and thank the Moray public for its patience and understanding.
“Our frontline staff continue to work incredibly hard to see and treat as many patients and possible and I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank them for their efforts.”