University Hospital Galway limits ward visits due to vomiting bug outbreak

Norovirus spreads very easily in public places such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools. Anyone with recent symptoms of diarrhoea and/or vomiting or who has had contact with others who have these symptoms should not visit patients in the hospital to avoid spreading the virus to sick and vulnerable patients.

The hospital explained these measures are vital to avoid spreading the virus to patients, visitors and staff.

UHG added that if you are visiting the hospital, you can minimise your risk of catching an infection by ensuring the following:

If you have any symptoms (diarrhoea/vomiting), you should not come to visit until all symptoms are fully resolved for at least 48 hours. Clean your hands with soap and water after using toilet or visibly soiled hands. Do not use patient toilets on the wards or en-suites; visitor toilets are available at ground floor level. It's not always possible to avoid getting norovirus, but UHG also gave the following advice to help stop the virus spreading:

Stay off work or school until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have passed. You should also avoid visiting anyone in hospital during this time. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Do not rely on alcohol hand gels, as they do not kill the virus. Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated. It's best to use a bleach-based household cleaner. Wash any items of clothing or bedding that could have become contaminated separately on a hot wash to ensure the virus is killed. Don't share towels and flannels. Flush away any infected poo or vomit in the toilet and clean the surrounding area. Avoid eating raw, unwashed produce. The hospital also thanked the public for their co-operation.