17/11/2017
The latest figures on norovirus show that NHS Boards are experiencing increased norovirus activity with health professionals across NHS Scotland working hard to reduce the likelihood of outbreaks arising.
Lisa Ritchie, Nurse Consultant, Infection Control at HPS, said: “Norovirus is a highly infectious virus that causes outbreaks in the community, healthcare and care settings. Although it is present all year round, norovirus becomes more common in the winter when people stay indoors for longer and in larger groups.
“To help reduce the risk of norovirus outbreaks, we would once again ask anyone who think they have norovirus to stay at home until at least 48 hours after any symptoms have stopped.
“As norovirus is so infectious, it is important that everyone plays their part and takes responsibility for trying to reduce the risk of outbreaks. In order to do this, hospitals may suspend access to particular wards to protect patients, staff and visitors from norovirus and to minimise disruption to healthcare services.”
Health Protection Scotland continues to monitor the situation and will support NHS Boards as required.
For more details of the latest picture, see Health Protection Scotland’s weekly norovirus report: https://public.tableau.com/profile/nss.finance#!/vizhome/NorovirusDashboard_0/NorovirusDashboard