2:32pm Monday 8th February 2010
By Claire Hack
VISITOR restrictions have been lifted at Whipps Cross University Hospital as an outbreak of the norovirus clears.
The outbreak of the virus, or winter vomiting bug, saw the hospital in virtual lockdown in a bid to prevent the spread of infection.
All visitors were banned and all but four wards were closed to new admissions for a total of four weeks.
Visitors now coming in to the hospital will still be reminded of hygiene procedures and will be asked to wash their hands with soap and water when on the site.
Some wards remain closed and relatives will need to check with the hospital before attempting to visit.
Additional security posted at all entrances will also be taken away and the restaurant and jobs junctions will be reopened.
The shops are still closed to the general public.
Cathy Geddes, director of nursing at the Leytonstone hospital, said: “The last four weeks have been an extremely difficult time for the local community and relatives of patients on our wards so it has been a real positive to stand down from the visitor restrictions we had to implement.
“This has been made possible from the hard work and determination of all staff at the Trust and we thank everyone involved for their efforts including the general public for their support during this time.”
There was also a high level of demand for beds because of a combination of a number of viruses, including norovirus cases, as well as flu and general winter illnesses.
Anyone who has been feeling unwell or has been suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea is still urged to stay away from hospital Patients are asked to contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or via the website at nhsdirect.nhs.uk
They can also contact GP practices, including out-of-hours services.
Those with hospital appointments are still being asked to attend hospital alone and go straight to the relevant location.
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