Visiting Restrictions at Countess of Chester Hospital

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is currently experiencing a spike in Norovirus cases, with an increasing number of patients testing positive for the highly contagious virus.

Norovirus, commonly known as the “winter vomiting bug,” causes symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting but typically resolves within a few days.

Sue Pemberton, Director of Nursing and Quality said:

“To protect our patients and minimise the risk of further transmission, we have made the difficult decision to temporarily pause visiting to all adult acute inpatient areas at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

“This was a not a decision we took lightly. Our priority is to protect our patients and minimise the risk of norovirus spreading. We will monitor the situation on a daily basis and return to normal visiting arrangements as soon as we can.

“We know it will be difficult for our patients and their loved ones to be apart and we are grateful for their patience and understanding. 

“Visiting to the Critical Care Unit and wards in the Women and Children’s Building as well as wards at Ellesmere Port Hospital, remains unaffected and will continue as normal.”

Norovirus is a seasonal illness that can usually be treated at home. Please be aware that norovirus can spread in non-symptomatic people.

Help prevent the spread of infections such as norovirus by:

• staying at home if you feel unwell
• washing your hands regularly
• using tissues to catch coughs and sneezes.

Find more about norovirus and how to prevent the spread: 

http://nhs.uk/norovirus