Ward 8 Perth Royal Infirmary closed to new admissions

Ward 8 at Perth Royal Infirmary has been closed to new admissions following several cases of vomiting and diarrhoea which is thought to be caused by Norovirus more commonly known as the winter vomiting bug.

The ward has been closed to new patients as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the virus and all appropriate infection control measures have been put in place.

Norovirus is common in the wider community throughout the year. Good hygiene is important in preventing others from becoming infected – this includes thorough hand washing after using the toilet. Food preparation should also be avoided until 48 hours after the symptoms have subsided. Ward 8 at PRI is closed to new admissions following several cases of vomiting and diarrhoea (norovirus) http://t.co/5mACbf1RXp

— NHS Tayside (@NHSTayside) August 15, 2014

NHS Tayside said: "To help us minimise the spread of these bugs, we ask people who may be feeling unwell or experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea not to visit their friends and family members who are in hospital. We would urge them to stay away until at least 48 hours after they are free of all symptoms."