Sickness and/or Diarrhoea Bug closes Ward 16
NHS Dumfries and Galloway has today (18 December 2014) taken the precautionary measure to temporarily close Ward 16 to new admissions, transfers and restrict visitors at the Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, due to a outbreak of sickness and/or diarrhoea. Norovirus is not confirmed at this stage.
The Hospital’s Infection Control team is continually monitoring the situation and has implemented full outbreak control measures and all appropriate infection control procedures have been put in place.
Ward 16 is now closed to new admissions, transfers and routine visiting. A total of 5 patients and 1 member of staff have symptoms of sickness and/or diarrhoea.
Elaine Ross Infection Control Manager said:
“Our priority is always patient, public and staff safety. We appreciate that this temporary visiting restriction to Ward 16 may cause some frustration, this measure will allow us to help prevent further spread of the infection and ensure safe patient care.”
“Where circumstances are such that relatives are concerned about the need to visit their loved ones in Ward 16, they are asked to contact the ward before coming to the hospital.
All members of the public visiting other areas of the hospital are asked to comply with the hand hygiene and infection control measures in place.
“We are aware of a number of circulating viruses in the community and to ask people not to visit if they have been feeling unwell.”
