Visiting Restrictions at Addenbrooke's

Relatives visiting patients are being warned that visiting restrictions are now in place on all adult wards at the Addenbrooke's and Rosie hospitals in Cambridge to stop the spread of norovirus and protect patients.

Two wards - C5 and the planned short stay unit (PSSU) - are currently closed. No visitors will be allowed on these wards unless on compassionate grounds and by prior arrangement.

Visitors to adult wards will only be allowed on the wards between 3pm-5pm and 7pm-8pm. Only two adult visitors per patient will be allowed at any one time. The restriction on children under 12 visiting wards, apart from exceptional circumstances, remains in place.

Sharon McNally, deputy chief nurse said: "We are seeing a rise in cases of norovirus, the bug which causes diarrhoea and vomiting.

Alcohol based hand rubs are very effective at killing germs but they are not a cure for all. The hospital advises people to try to wash their hands regularly using soap and water.

Sharon McNally advised anyone anxious about the virus that the best treatment is to rest at home and drink plenty of fluids. She added, "In otherwise healthy people, it normally clears up after around 48 hours - but if you are concerned or you have other health problems, speak to your GP or NHS Direct or go online."

If you are planning a visit, the hospital advises that you call (01223) 245151 to check if a ward is affected.