Norovirus shuts down East Surrey Hospital wards to visitors

The Redhill hospital, run by Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, apologised for the temporary halt, but asked for anyone with exceptional circumstances to call the ward manager.

Michael Wilson, CEO at East Surrey Hospital said: “To help stop the spread of norovirus, the winter vomiting and diarrhoea bug, we have taken the difficult decision to prevent visitors coming to the hospital.

“The winter vomiting and diarrhoea bug causes serious disruption in hospitals at this time of year, and East Surrey Hospital is just one of many healthcare providers in the UK to stop visiting to protect its patients.

“I am very sorry but to help stop norovirus spreading, we’ve had to stop visiting altogether. No visitors are allowed on the wards unless there are exceptional circumstances and access has been agreed with the ward manager.

“We don’t take this decision lightly – we know it causes upset for the family and friends, and the patients themselves who look forward to seeing their loved ones.

“Please be assured that our patients have been informed that visitors have to stay away for the time being, and there is a phone on every ward so that you can either speak or leave a message for your loved one.

“If you would like to discuss this further, please speak to the ward manager. Thank you for your co-operation at this difficult time.”

Anyone with diarrhoea and/or vomiting should not visit A&E unless instructed to do so by their GP.

If you have norovirus symptoms and would like medical advice, call your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.