Ward 15 reopens, Ward 16 remains closed

One of two Whangarei Hospital wards which was closed to prevent the spread of an infectious vomiting and diarrhoea bug has been reopened.

Ward 15 was reopened on Friday, however Ward 16 remains closed to new medical admissions as patients continue to be admitted to the hospital with norovirus symptoms. The "bug" has now been positively identified as norovirus, and special hygiene measures will continue on Ward 16 until all patients are clear of symptoms.

Norovirus is known to be circulating in the Northland community. 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.

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. Thorough hand washing is essential to prevent the spread of the disease.

Dr Ian Brown, Northland's Chief Medical Officer, said that for most healthy adults the disease lasts a day or two and does not cause severe illness, although elderly people and those with pre-existing health conditions are more likely to suffer complications.



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For further information, please contact:

Clare Blackburn, Communications Manager

Northland District Health Board 

Phone (09) 430 4101 ext 3315