26 May 2015
One bay in Ward 5 at the Borders General Hospital is currently closed due to confirmed norovirus.
The situation is being managed by NHS Borders Infection Prevention and Control Team with support from frontline colleagues.
Interim Joint Director of Public Health, Dr Tim Patterson said: “Norovirus is one of the most common causes of diarrhoea and vomiting illness. It is very infectious, spreads quickly between people and can start abruptly and spread quickly through communities.
“Although the current cases are confined to a very small area of the hospital, we would like to remind members of the public to remain vigilant and not to visit the hospital if they have experienced any symptoms of diahorrea or vomiting over the past 48 hours.
“Patients, visitors and staff can help minimise the spread by complying with instructions given by staff and paying attention to the signs at the entrances to the hospital and wards.”
Common symptoms of Norovirus are diarrhoea and/or vomiting generally lasting for 12-72 hours. Other symptoms can include headache, fever and muscle aches. Anyone can get the infection and it can be serious in the very young, frail or older people who are vulnerable to the effects of dehydration.
Treatment for Norovirus in most cases requires drinking more fluids than usual and resting to give your body a chance to fight the infection. Because it is a virus, antibiotics will not help. NHS24 provides comprehensive up-to-date health information and self care advice by telephone on 111 or on their website at www.nhs24.co.uk. Because the symptoms of Norovirus can come on very quickly, we know that many people are worried, particularly if a child is taken ill. If you are worried, you should call NHS 24 or your local health centre or GP.