The HSE South is appealing to the public to avoid visiting hospitals if they have recently been affected by the Norovirus, commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug’.
A number of cases have been reported in Bantry General Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, and the South Infirmary/Victoria University Hospital and visitor restrictions have been put in place.
The Hospital Network Manager in the HSE South, Gerry O’Dwyer, is appealing to the general public to refrain from visiting hospitals and health facilities if they have been affected by the vomiting bug in the last 72 hours.
Visitors are also asked to contact the hospital or health facility they are planning to visit to find out if restrictions are in place.
Mr O'Dwyer said the bug is currently widespread in the community and people may unknowingly bring the bug into the hospitals when visiting. He added that patient care is the priority.
The virus is highly infectious and is spread by direct contact with vomit or diarrhoea from someone who is ill.
