Countess of Chester Hospital urges public vigilance and handwashing to help stop the spread of Norovirus

Norovirus cases are on the rise in our local community, and the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is urging everyone to play their part in keeping loved ones, vulnerable patients, and staff safe this winter.

To help prevent the spread of norovirus - a highly contagious stomach bug causing diarrhoea and vomiting - the Trust is asking anyone with symptoms of norovirus not to visit friends or relatives in hospital.

Sue Pemberton, Director of Nursing and Quality at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“We know how important it is to stay connected with loved ones, but protecting those in our care, as well as our staff and the wider community, must come first. However, we must ask anyone who is unwell or experiencing symptoms of norovirus to stay at home and rest, rather than risk passing the infection on to others.”

Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water remains the most effective way to prevent norovirus transmission. Please help us protect our community, especially those who are most vulnerable, by practising good hand hygiene and staying home if you feel unwell.

Sue added:

“Please also help by using NHS services sensibly during this busy period. In an emergency, call 999; for other health concerns, use NHS 111 or your GP.

Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. If you catch norovirus, make sure you rest and have plenty of fluids. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is the best way to prevent its spread.

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust provides services to West Cheshire and to Welsh patients covered by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. The Trust works collaboratively within the wider Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care System.  

Its services are provided from three locations: The Countess of Chester Hospital, Ellesmere Port Hospital and Tarporley War Memorial Hospital.