VISITS to Cork University Hospital have been restricted to reduce the spread of Norovirus.

While limited visiting is in place, HSE South West has appealed to the public not to visit CUH or any other facility if they have symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting, to limit the spread of this very contagious virus and to help keep vulnerable patients safe.

The hospital is dealing with an outbreak of Norovirus (also known as the winter vomiting bug)  which is affecting two wards, with other wards under observation.

Under the current restrictions:

• Only one visitor is permitted per patient.
• Visiting hours of 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm are strictly adhered to.
• All visitors must use the alcohol hand gels supplied as they enter and leave the hospital..

These measures will be lifted as soon as possible when clinical circumstances allow.

Infection control procedures are also in place on the wards and will remain until further notice.

CUH CEO Jennifer Kearney said the illness is ‘an unpleasant virus which can spread quickly and easily, so we are taking these measures within the hospital to keep patients safe.’