Leighton Hospital A&E patients

A virus sweeping through patients at Leighton Hospital has forced health chiefs to impose visiting restrictions.

Nantwich families are being warned to stay away as the Norovirus vomiting and diarrhoea bug spreads.

Strict measures are in place in wards 4 and 7, where only “absolutely essential” visiting is allowed in the evenings.

Visitors to other wards are being urged to postpone if possible or only visit in the evening during less busy times.

Karen Egan, associate director of Infection Prevention and Control, said: “We are asking the public to not visit at the moment to allow effective management of the infection, as the number of patients affected has been unusual for this time of year.

“We are working hard to remind staff of the strict infection control measures we have in place across our clinical areas.

“We also request relatives don’t visit if they have felt unwell with diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting (feeling or being sick) over the past 48 hours as our patients may be more vulnerable to picking up bugs.”

Julie Smith, director of nursing and quality at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The hospital has stringent hygiene measures in place and a rigorous cleaning schedule.

“Visitors are asked to remember to wash their hands when coming onto or leaving a ward area, and to use the hand gels provided at the entrance and exit to all patient areas.

“Rather than risk passing on infections by visiting in person, we would suggest phoning the ward to check on relatives.

“The comfort and care of our patients remains our top priority, and we are doing everything possible to limit the spread of Norovirus and other infections.”

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