If You Feel Unwell Stay At Home - Infection Control Advice From Addenbrooke's Hostpial, Cambridge, England

Main Category: GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology
Also Included In: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses;  Public Health
Article Date: 25 Nov 2008 - 2:00 PST

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Norovirus, also known as winter vomiting, is a typical seasonal bug which appears when the colder weather sets in. Symptoms usually last 48 hours and include diarrhoea and vomiting. To protect vulnerable patients, the hospital is asking visitors feeling unwell to stay at home.

Cheryl Trundle, senior nurse for infection control, said: "Addenbrooke's, along with other hospitals in the region, is seeing an increase in patients presenting with suspected viral diarrhoea and vomiting. This is an acute illness which may come on suddenly but is usually over within 48 hours.

"We would advise that if you are affected you stay at home, drink plenty of fluids and follow good hygiene practices including hand washing. If you have been unwell or are feeling unwell you should not visit until you have been free from symptoms for at least 48 hours. This is to protect vulnerable patients in the hospital."

Source
David Williams
Press & Media Manager
http://www.addenbrookes.nhs.uk