RESTRICTIONS on a Salisbury District Hospital ward, caused by an outbreak of norovirus, have been lifted.

The vomiting bug has been affecting many parts of the region, but hospital boss say that "thanks to the hard work of staff", as well as the response from the general public, there are now no ward restrictions in place, following incidents in Pitton Ward on Level Four of the hospital.

Lorna Wilkinson, director of nursing commented “It’s important that we take every opportunity to reduce the risk of infection to our patients and staff.

"We have robust infection prevention and control procedures in place and I am extremely proud of the hard work, and quick response from our staff to successfully contain the spread of the virus within our hospital.”

As reported last week, restrictions were put in place following a diarrhoea and vomiting outbreak.

Visiting was restricted to family and friends of patients only.

What is norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. Despite the warmer weather it has been circulating in the region.

Hospital bosses have sent out a plea for locals to avoid visiting the hospital if you’ve had have had ‘flu like’ symptoms, diarrhoea or vomiting over the last few days prior to an intended visit, or have been in contact with someone with these symptoms.

You can help reduce the spread of norovirus further by regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet, and before eating or preparing food. Only hand-washing will prevent the spread of norovirus - alcohol hand gels don’t kill the virus.