Western Isles Hospital ward reopen’s

Clisham Ward is set to re-open later today, after being closed last Thursday when a small number of patients and staff started displaying symptoms of Norovirus (winter vomiting bug).

Restricted visiting hours are no longer in place. However, visitors will continue to be encouraged to limit their visiting times to between 3pm-4pm and 7pm-8pm as far as possible.

Across Scotland, health boards are preparing for the annual onset of norovirus and the potential closure of wards that may result. Many parts of Scotland are currently experiencing outbreaks but there is no indication that this year is significantly worse than previous years.

Dr Louise Scott, GP Health Protection Team NHS Western Isles, issued the following general health advice:

To minimise the spread of Norovirus within the home:

• Wash your hands thoroughly after visiting the toilet
• Hand washing with soap and water, not just using the alcohol gels,  is important
• Similarly clean and wash down any surfaces that have been contaminated including toilet seats, handles and taps with a bleach-based household disinfectant. Take care to ensure that the disinfectant is used safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Additionally those with symptoms should:

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated.
• Stay at home if possible until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
• Do not visit hospitals, nurseries or nursing homes if you have had any stomach upset within the preceding 72 hours

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