Norovirus Outbreak: Stockport Hospital Restricts Visiting Hours

Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport has immediately restricted visitors due to a significant outbreak of norovirus on its wards, the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust announced today.

The trust stated It’s currently experiencing a “very high” number of cases of the virus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, which causes diarrhoea and vomiting. Visiting has been suspended for all patients, with exceptions made only for those receiving end-of-life care, and patients with dementia or learning disabilities. The restrictions will be reviewed on February 20th.

The decision follows a similar move by the Royal Bolton Hospital earlier this week, which also suspended open visiting hours on three wards affected by infections, according to reports.

In a statement, the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust explained that although open visiting is usually permitted, the increasing risk posed by norovirus to vulnerable patients and pressures on hospital services necessitated the restrictions. Patients whose wellbeing would be negatively impacted by the restrictions, including those with neurodiverse conditions or learning disabilities, may still receive visitors, but advance discussion with ward staff is required.

The trust emphasized that the measures are being implemented with patient safety and wellbeing as the primary concern. Additional cleaning protocols have been implemented in affected areas, and staff are actively working to identify patients with symptoms through increased awareness and laboratory testing.

The Stockport NHS Foundation Trust operates Stepping Hill Hospital, which recently unveiled a new MR scanner suite, according to a separate announcement. However, the immediate focus remains on containing the spread of norovirus and protecting patients.