Norovirus outbreak closes three wards at St George’s Hospital

Three wards at St George’s Hospital have been closed due to an outbreak of the vomiting bug norovirus. 

The Tooting hospital has closed its Allingham, Amyand and Marnham wards to admissions and transfers to protect new patients from being exposed to the virus. 

As new data from NHS England confirms cases of the virus are still climbing, health chiefs are sharing advice on how to prevent the spread of infection.

Professor Arlene Wellman, group chief nurse for St George’s, Epsom and St Helier, said: “Once norovirus enters a hospital, it can rip through our wards like wildfire, making patients even sicker. We are doing everything we can to limit the spread, but you can help us. 

 “Hand sanitisers such as alcohol gel do not kill the bug – the simple act of good hand washing with soap and water can make all the difference between our beds being used to care for patients, or lying empty at a time when every bed is precious.” 

Norovirus symptoms usually last for two to three days, but people remain infectious for up to 48-72 hours after symptoms have stopped.

Symptoms include feeling sick, vomiting and diarrhoea. 

There is no specific treatment for norovirus, but drinking plenty of fluids is advised to avoid dehydration. 

Pictured top: St George’s Hospital in Blackshaw Road, Tooting (Picture: Wandsworth council)