Update on possible norovirus outbreak at Whangarei Hospital

A ward at Whangarei Hospital will remain closed to medical admissions until cases of an infectious vomiting and diarrhoea bug have ceased.

There were no new cases of the disease, which is suspected to be norovirus, among hospital patients over the weekend. However several new patients suffering from vomiting and/or diarrhoea were admitted to the hospital from the community.
These people are being nursed in Ward 16, a general medical ward which was closed to new medical admissions on Friday, in order to prevent the spread of the condition. Extra measures have been put in place to control the outbreak including strict hygiene procedures.

Seven patients were last week affected by the condition, which has not yet been confirmed but is suspected to be norovirus (viral gastroenteritis). These patients are now starting to recover.

Visitors to Ward 16 are still being limited and people in the community who are experiencing any symptoms of nausea or diarrhoea are asked not to visit family or friends in hospital, until they have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.

Dr Loek Henneveld, Medical Officer of Health, said: "It appears that there is no transmission of infection in the ward or the hospital, but we will continue to observe rigorous hygiene measures until all cases have been resolved. This includes the continued closure of Ward 16 to all new medical cases (other than people suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea).

"Clearly the disease is still circulating in the community. People in the community with sickness and diarrhoea should drink plenty of fluids, and see their doctor if they have severe symptoms or do not improve within 48 hours. Thorough hand washing is essential to prevent the spread of the disease."

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus found only in humans. The most usual ways of catching it are contact with infected people, eating contaminated food (especially shellfish) or drinking untreated water.



-Ends-



For further information, please contact:

Clare Blackburn, Communications Manager

Northland District Health Board 

Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 3315