Ban on visitors to UHL following outbreak of winter vomiting bug

Visiting restrictions have been tightened at University Hospital Limerick following an outbreak of the norovirus (winter vomiting bug).

The UL Hospitals Group has introduced a ban on all visitors except for those visiting the Intensive Care Unit, the High Dependency Unit, the Coronary Care Unit or paediatric patients.

“In the locations exempt from the outright visiting ban, it is necessary to restrict visits to one person per patient only and to remind members of the public that visiting hours of 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 9pm are to be strictly adhered to,” said a spokesperson who added that children should not be brought to the hospital.

Norovirus Update April 12: Visiting ban now in place at UHL due to winter vomiting bug. Only exceptions Intensive Care, High Dependency, Coronary Care and Paediatrics (2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 9pm only). If symptomatic, seek GP advice by phone and avoid ED https://t.co/qyio74Iiym

— UL Hospitals (@ULHospitals) April 12, 2018

“We regret any inconvenience caused to patients or their loved ones at this time but these restrictions are necessary in the interests of patient care as UHL manages a significant outbreak of norovirus,” said the spokesperson.

There are currently 10 symptomatic patients on Ward 3A, three symptomatic patients on Ward 3D and four symptomatic patients awaiting admission from the Emergency Department, all of whom are in isolation.

All infection control measures are in place and the UL Hospitals Group says every effort is being made to manage and contain the spread of the virus.

Patients are being isolated and cohorted as appropriate and a number of beds have been closed to admissions in accordance with IP&C protocols. This is expected to impact on  bed capacity over the coming days as the situation is managed.

Members of the public are advised that norovirus is currently circulating in the community and therefore members of the public should not visit anyone in hospital if they themselves are unwell.

Symptoms include vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea. This is important as there have been previous outbreaks secondary to vomiting episodes by visitors on the hospital wards.

People with symptoms are advised to contact their GP by phone in the first instance and avoid presenting at the Emergency Department at UHL.

“We are asking people to think about all their care and treatment options and keep ED services for the patients who need them most. However, if you are seriously injured or ill or are worried your life is at risk the ED will assess and treat you as a priority,” said a spokesperson.