The Surgical Ward at Western Isles Hospital has now reopened to new patients following an outbreak of Norovirus. Normal visiting arrangements have also been reinstated for both the Surgical Ward and Medical Ward 1.
However, Medical Ward 2 remains closed to new admissions. Visiting in this ward is currently restricted to essential personnel only. Essential visitors are defined as those whose presence is crucial for a patient's care, wellbeing, or support. This includes relatives of patients receiving end-of-life care, parents of children in hospital, and carers supporting vulnerable patients. Individuals unsure about visiting eligibility are advised to contact the ward and speak with the nurse in charge.
An Incident Management Team (IMT) is actively overseeing the situation to ensure all necessary infection prevention and control measures are implemented and rigorously monitored. Norovirus is known for its high contagiousness, spreading rapidly through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and food. Common symptoms include a sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhoea, stomach cramps, headache, aching limbs, and occasionally a mild fever.
To safeguard vulnerable patients and curb the spread of infection, the public is strongly urged not to visit hospitals or care homes if experiencing symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea, or if symptoms have been present within the last 48 hours.
NHS Western Isles provides the following advice for anyone experiencing symptoms: stay at home and minimise contact with others, drink ample fluids to prevent dehydration, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food, avoid preparing food for others whilst unwell, and do not visit healthcare facilities until at least 48 hours after symptoms have fully subsided.
Individuals with concerns about their symptoms, or who are unable to keep fluids down, should contact NHS 24 on 111 or their GP practice for medical advice.
NHS Western Isles extends its gratitude to patients, visitors, and staff for their ongoing cooperation and understanding as these measures continue to be in place to protect patients and healthcare workers.
