Two hospitals in Gloucestershire have warned the public to avoid visiting certain wards to protect vulnerable patients, and prevent the spread of highly contagious winter illnesses such as Norovirus.
The temporary restrictions have been put in place at Cheltenham General Hospital and Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, in an effort to reduce the number of people moving in and out of affected wards. Patients are also advised to only attend A&E at these hospitals if their condition is serious of life-threatening.
Exceptions will be made for carers and those visiting on compassionate
grounds who may visit but are asked to call ahead or speak to a member of
staff upon arrival.
Gloucestershire Royal Hospital and Cheltenham General Hospital have issued the following important health advice:
- Do not visit hospitals if you have had diarrhoea, vomiting, cold or flu-like symptoms.
- If you are scheduled for a planned hospital stay and develop diarrhoea or vomiting beforehand, please contact the relevant ward or department for advice on whether you should attend.
- Our A&Es are under significant pressure. Please only call 999 or visit Emergency Departments in Gloucester or Cheltenham for life-threatening conditions or serious injuries.
- If you need urgent care, please consider alternatives like Minor Injuries and Illness Units (MIIUs), which are open into the evening. These often have shorter waiting times and available parking.
