Dundee’s Ninewells Hospital Amongst Those Affected By Illness

Ninewells Hospital in Dundee is among three healthcare sites in Tayside which have been forced to close wards to new admissions following the reported norovirus problems.

The Mulberry Unit at Stracathro Hospital in Brechin and the Perth Royal infirmary also had to close wards to new admissions as a result of experiencing gastric illness symptoms including sickness and diarrhoea

It has now been confirmed that ward 19 in Ninewells, the Mulberry Unit and ward 8 at the Perth Royal Infirmary have now re-opened after closing to new admissions for several days due to several patients experiencing similar problems with the illness, which is also known as the winter vomiting bug.

A spokeswoman for NHS Tayside confirmed that wards were closed as a precautionary measure and stated: “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.”

Expert Opinion

As a result of our work on behalf of those affected by norovirus outbreaks, we have seen how the illness can have long-term consequences for those affected – significantly disrupting their lives and in some cases leading to further health problems. <br/> <br/>"This is why it is vital that NHS Tayside and other authorities investigate the cause of the problems, now that the spread of the illness appears to have been largely contained. <br/> <br/>"Gathering as much information as possible is vital in order to ensure that lessons can be learned which will prevent these issues from being repeated." Amandeep Dhillon - Partner