Borders hospital still closed to new admissions after norovirus outbreak

Hay Lodge Hospital in Peebles remains closed to new admissions following that confirmation.

As well as potential patients being turned away, visitors are also being discouraged from turning up at the 23-bed Neidpath Road hospital.

Prospective visitors are being urged to stay away if they or anyone in their family has experienced symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting in the last two days.

Tim Patterson, joint director of public health for the Borders, said: “Norovirus is one of the most common causes of diarrhoea and vomiting illness.

“It is very infectious and spreads quickly between people. That is why outbreaks happen in hospitals where a number of people are sharing facilities. However, it doesn’t just occur in hospitals and can start abruptly and spread quickly through communities.

“Action by patients, visitors and staff can help support us to deliver safe patient care and minimise the impact of a potential norovirus outbreak, and we are urging visitors to comply with any instructions you are given by staff or signs that you see at the entrances to wards.

“This is vital to protect yourselves and your loved ones from catching this unpleasant virus, particularly as your friends or family members currently in hospital may be more vulnerable to the virus than usual.

“Thank you for your co-operation.”

The most noticeable symptoms of norovirus are diarrhoea and vomiting, generally lasting for 12 to 72 hours, but others can include headaches, fever and muscle aches.

Go to www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors for updates.