Do not visit patients in hospital if you are unwell

Please help us to protect our patients and staff from highly contagious illnesses. COVID-19, flu, other respiratory infections, and norovirus (diarrhoea and vomiting) easily spread. 

When these infections are brought into a hospital environment, they can transfer to vulnerable patients and staff.

We understand that patients in hospital want to see their family and friends. It is extremely important that anyone who is feeling unwell or has been experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting be clear of any symptoms for at least 48 hours before visiting.

People can always phone or FaceTime their loved one and visit when they are symptom free and feeling better.

Those who are well enough to visit can help prevent infection spreading by washing their hands with soap and water when entering the hospital and before they leave the wards rather than just using hand sanitiser.

Further information can be found below and on our Visiting Guidance page.

COVID-19
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an infectious disease. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.

COVID-19 symptoms can include:

• A high temperature or shivering (chills)
• A new, continuous cough
• A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling tired or exhausted
• An aching body
• A headache
• A sore throat
• A blocked or runny nose
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Feeling sick or being sick.

For most people, their condition generally improves within a few days or weeks after the onset of initial COVID-19 symptoms. However, for certain vulnerable people, COVID-19 can lead to a more severe illness, and their symptoms may persist for an extended duration.

Flu and other respiratory illnesses
Flu and other respiratory ailments are common infectious viral illnesses which can be highly contagious.

The main symptoms include a raised temperature, tiredness and general exhaustion, headaches and general aches and pains. 

You should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, rest at home and keep warm.

Norovirus (diarrhoea and vomiting)
Norovirus, also known as ‘winter vomiting disease’, is highly contagious. It affects people of all ages and can be spread very easily through water, food, air, and direct and indirect contact. 

Norovirus symptoms can include:

• Vomiting/projectile vomiting
• Diarrhoea 
• A moderate to high temperature. 

If you have experienced any of these symptoms in the previous 48 hours, please do not visit the hospital. There is no specific treatment for norovirus, but you should drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. If you are worried or concerned, use NHS 111 in the first instance for advice.