An NHS Trust has announced a state of emergency due to a norovirus outbreak at one of its hospitals, which has now lasted for two weeks.
All sections of East Surrey Hospital in Redhill have restricted visitations temporarily due to the outbreak. Surrey & Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) mentioned that the hospital is currently facing “persistent high levels” of norovirus and a significant demand on its emergency care services.
Norovirus, commonly known as the “stomach bug” or winter vomiting disease, is a highly infectious virus that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea. It spreads quickly through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with infected individuals, and symptoms usually manifest abruptly 12-48 hours after exposure.
Last week, East Surrey Hospital shut down multiple wards as the SASH advised the public against visiting the hospital if they experienced diarrhea or vomiting in the previous 48 hours.
The Trust has implemented temporary visiting restrictions for all wards at the 744-bed hospital “until further notice,” with exceptions for patients in end-of-life care, maternity and pediatric wards, and the Emergency Department (ED).
Consequently, SASH has urged the public to only visit the ED for serious or life-threatening conditions or medical emergencies. Staff may need to reschedule some non-urgent appointments to prioritize patients with the most urgent medical needs.
Dr. Ed Cetti, Chief Medical Officer for Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, commented on the critical situation, stating that the Trust has declared a Critical Incident due to the ongoing high levels of Norovirus in the hospital, increased demand in the Emergency Department, and challenges in patient movement to adhere to infection control measures.
He emphasized that the temporary visiting restrictions at East Surrey Hospital will continue until further notice, except for specific wards to reduce the risk of further spread and ensure patient safety. Additionally, the public is advised not to visit the hospital if they have had diarrhea or vomiting in the past 48 hours.
Visitors to East Surrey Hospital are required to follow additional infection control measures to minimize Norovirus transmission, including practicing good hand hygiene, limiting movement within the facility, and wearing masks in clinical areas.
