Norovirus outbreak at Lincoln County Hospital declared over...but visitors are still advised to stay away

Although the outbreak is now over, norovirus continues to circulate in the community and the hospital is still experiencing a number of cases of patients admitted to the hospital who are incubating the infection.

Michelle Rhodes, director of nursing for ULHT, said: “It is testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff that we are able to declare this outbreak over. Many of them have gone above and beyond what is normally required of them to ensure disruption to the hospital is minimised and ensuring patient safety and care is not compromised.

“I’d like to thank the public, too. In staying away from our wards and A&E they have helped us cope and keep disruptions to a minimum. But we still need their support. Visiting restrictions remain in place in order to limit the spread of the virus and to protect our vulnerable patients and our staff.”

The number of visitors per patient will be limited to a maximum of two per bed space, in all but exceptional circumstances. Children aged five years and under should not visit the hospital.

If you have norovirus symptoms or have had them in the past 72 hours, please do not attend A&E or visit the hospital. If you have symptoms, the best things you can do are rest and take plenty of non-caffeinated drinks to avoid dehydration.

People worried about prolonged symptoms should contact NHS 111 or ring their GP, not visit their surgery. They will be able to provide advice for people who are at greater risk from dehydration from diarrhoea and vomiting, such as young children or the elderly.