Norovirus Warning

14 December 2012, 12:20 | Updated: 14 December 2012, 12:24

People going to visit relatives at the Luton and Dunstable Hospital are being asked not to take young children, to help stop the winter vomiting bug spreading.

The Hospital have had to close nine wards during November and December 2012 because of outbreaks of the norovirus.  Health officials are worried more than 750,000 people could be affected across the country by the virus this winter.

In a statement the L & D say: "Norvirus is a danger to patients so don't bring it with you to hospital. To protect patients, no more than 2 visitors are allowed per bed.

"Norovirus causes vomiting, fever and diarrhoea and we may close a ward to protect sick patients. Here is how you can help. Don't visit if you feel ill or had Norovirus symptoms in the past 48 hours and try not to bring children to visit patients.

"Norovirus can affect anyone, including you. Do you need to visit? It is very important to wash your hands carefully and often - especially with soap and water.

"If you have Norovirus don't come to A&E: stay home and drink fluids. There is no medical treatment for Norovirus - it will run its course and should last just 1 or 2 days."