An outbreak of illness, suspected to be the Norovirus, has been reported at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital.

The outbreak - characterised by vomiting and diarrhoea, has affected two wards within the hospital, leading to the isolation of several staff and patients.

Members of the public are asked to take the following advice if they have symptoms associated with the Norovirus (also known as the winter vomiting virus):

1) Wait for 48 hours after your symptoms have cleared before returning to work or school, as you continue to shed the virus for 48 hours after you have completely recovered. 

2) Do not visit Accident and Emergency at Noble’s Hospital or the Minor Injuries Unit at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital.  If you need medical advice, please contact your Doctor by telephone rather than visit the surgery.

3) Do not visit hospitals or care homes for at least 48 hours after the symptoms are resolved as once introduced this virus is likely to cause a major outbreak and can be serious in the elderly or those with other illnesses.

4) Follow hygiene precautions at home if anyone suffers from diarrhoea and vomiting. These include: scrupulous washing of hands and thorough cleaning up with bleach.  

The condition is self-limiting and symptoms subside in two to three days. For more information, visit www.gov.im/norovirus