Hospital tackles norovirus outbreak as warning issued

• Belford Hospital has restricted new patient admissions and limited visitors due to a norovirus outbreak.
• This comes amidst a potential second wave of norovirus, with the dominant strain shifting from GII.17 to GII.4.
• While both strains have similar severity, the shift raises concerns as previous GII.17 infections may not offer immunity to GII.4.
• The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises strict hygiene practices, emphasising handwashing as alcohol gels are ineffective against norovirus.
• Norovirus cases remain high, impacting healthcare settings significantly, and the public is urged to avoid hospitals and care homes if experiencing symptoms.

IN FULL

What you need to know about new norovirus outbreak as NHS forced to shut wards