Cork hospital extends visitor restrictions as winter vomiting bug figures increase

Olivia Kelleher

Cork University Hospital (CUH) has had to introduce further visitor restrictions arising out of an ongoing outbreak of the winter vomiting bug.

As of Thursday evening, visiting is permitted only on compassionate grounds.

Visitors must contact the hospital switchboard on 021 492 2000 and ask to be put through to the individual ward for guidance on the matter.

Hospital CEO Jennifer Kearney said that the decision to further restrict visitors arose following “increasing cases of Norovirus circulating at CUH.

“The virus can spread quickly and easily, so we are taking these measures hospital will contain the virus more quickly and keep patients and staff safe," she said.

“These measures will be lifted as soon as possible when clinical circumstances allow. Infection control procedures are also in place on the wards and will remain until further notice.”

Norovirus causes diarrhoea and vomiting.

It is one of the most common stomach bugs in Ireland and is also called the 'winter vomiting bug'.

While it is more common in winter, you can catch it at any time of the year.

Further information can be obtained at https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/norovirus/.