VISITING restrictions are in place at Leighton Hospital following an outbreak of the Norovirus.

Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has applied temporary restrictions on wards four and 14, where only essential visits are permitted in the evening.

For all other wards, potential visitors are asked to consider if their visit can be postponed to help limit spread of the virus, which causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea.

Julie Smith, director of nursing and quality, said: “While some of our wards are currently affected by a viral illness thought to be Norovirus, we are asking the public to not visit these areas at the moment in order to allow for the effective management of the infection.

“We also request that relatives don’t visit any other areas of the hospital if they themselves have felt unwell with diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting – feeling or being sick – over the past 48 hours, as our patients may be more vulnerable to picking up bugs.”

The trust has stringent hygiene measures and a rigorous cleaning schedule in place to eradicate the virus’ spread.

Visitors are asked to remember to wash their hands when coming onto or leaving a ward area, and to use the hand gels provided at the entrance and exit to all patient areas.

Julie added: “Rather than risk passing on infections by visiting in person, we would suggest phoning the ward to check on relatives.

“We are happy for patients to make and receive calls on their mobile telephones in day rooms, and staff can facilitate a bedside telephone call for those whose mobility is limited.

“The comfort and care of our patients remains our top priority, and we are doing everything possible to limit the spread of Norovirus and other infections.”