UHKU vomiting bug fears

STRICT visiting restrictions have been introduced at University Hospital Kerry following an outbreak of the Norovirus, better known as the ‘Winter Vomiting Bug’.

Visitor restrictions were introduced at UHK with immediate effect on Tuesday morning after several patients fell ill with with suspected cases of norovirus.

Hospital Management said the restorctions were put in place in the interest of patient care and to curb the spread of the vomiting bug within the Hospital.

Visitors are asked to adhere strictly to the visiting times which are 2.00pm to 4pm and 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

Two visitors are allowed per patient with strictly no children allowed to visit. Visitors are also asked to respect these restricted visiting times and the security staff at the hospital who are ensuring the restrictions are adhered to.

“We would appeal to people not to visit UHK or any healthcare facility if they have been affected by vomiting and/or diarrhoea, or if they have been in contact with anyone with these symptoms until they have been symptom free for 72 hours,” said UHK General Manager Fearghal Grimes.

“The bug is currently prevalent in the community and visitors may unknowingly bring the bug into the hospital when visiting sick relatives or friends. Patient care is our priority and we would urge the public to help hospital staff keep the virus at bay as it can further debilitate those who are already sick in hospital,” Mr Grimes said.

There are some limited exceptions to the restrictions in the Intensive Care/Coronary Unit; the Neonatal Unit; the Ardagh Rehabilitation Ward; Maternity Unit and Children’s Ward.

However as with all wards, people who have been affected by the bug or who have been in contact with others affected by the bug are asked not to visit any healthcare facility for 72 hours.

Anyone with any queries about visiting times should ring the Hospital in advance on (066) 7184000.