Guests, including those aged in their 80s, were left bedbound as staff implemented deep clean

A Devon hotel was shut after guests were struck down by the gastric illness, Norovirus, last weekend, according to local media reports.

During the closure of the Imperial Hotel on Wilder Road, Ilfracombe – which lasted several days – some guests, including those aged in their 80s, were left bedbound as staff implemented deep clean procedures to help limit the spread of the virus, which can cause severe dehydration through vomiting and diarrhoea.

Speaking to local media, one 69-year-old guest who contracted the illness described the 104 bedroom hotel as “a scene from a sci-fi movie,” and reported that she feared that someone would die during the outbreak.

North Devon Council confirmed that the Imperial Hotel had reported the suspected cases of Norovirus linked to their premises to the local authority and had confirmed that they had taken steps to close the hotel last weekend as a result of the outbreak.

Norovirus, sometimes known as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis and affects people of all ages. In extreme cases it can cause death among the very young and the elderly.

Expert Opinion

“It is important that local authorities determine the source of this type of illness as soon as possible, especially when it emerges within a hotel environment with the potential for many people to be affected.

“We are regularly contacted by people who have had their weekend breaks or holidays ruined by outbreaks of illness which could have been avoided had the correct processes and hygiene standards been in place.

“I hope that any investigation into the Imperial Hotel outbreak is completed in a timely manner and that any findings which emerge are taken on board by those working within the hospitality industry, so that the chances of other guests contracting norovirus in the future are reduced.” Amandeep Dhillon - Partner

If you or a loved one have been affected by an outbreak and need help filing for a public health claim, get in touch with our experts today.