Ward 7A reopens at Raigmore Hospital

Following a deep clean Ward 7A at Raigmore Hospital has reopened to admissions and visitors. The ward was closed on the 23rd of August due to norovirus with four patients testing positive for the virus.

Catherine Stokoe, infection control manager for NHS Highland, praised staff across the hospital for all their hard work during the outbreak.

She said: “Our staff have worked incredibly hard during this time in not only looking after patients but also in getting the wards deep cleaned and ready for reopening. The virus was kept contained to one bay on the ward which is testament to how hard all staff have worked during this outbreak"

"...we know that norovirus is still active in the community..."

“I’d also like to thank the public for their co-operation during this time. It’s never an easy decision to make when we ask visitors to stay away but doing this not only helped protect the privacy and dignity of our patients but also kept the virus as contained as possible"

“However, we know that norovirus is still active in the community and we would ask that if you, or someone you live with, has had symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting you refrain from coming to the hospital until clear for 48 hours.”

There is no specific treatment for a norovirus infection and it is not usually necessary to visit a doctor. The best course of action is to stay at home and to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

The public can help to minimise the spread by following some simple rules:-

• Do not visit a hospital if you or someone you live with has symptoms. If you have a hospital appointment, please get in touch and, where appropriate, your appointment can be rescheduled.

• Wait until you have been clear of symptoms for 48 hours, as you may still be contagious, even if you feel well.

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating.

• If you visit someone in hospital, don't sit on their bed and keep the number of visitors to a minimum at any one time. Never touch dressings, drips, or other equipment around the bed.

For more information about hand hygiene visit the Scottish National Hand Hygiene Campaign website here