Illness Problems Lead To Number Of Closures

Illness experts at Irwin Mitchell have revealed their concerns following reports that several hospitals in Norfolk have been forced to close wards as a result of suspected norovirus outbreaks.

Reports in the Eastern Daily Press have revealed that James Paget University Hospital, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn have shut off areas as a result of the illness problems.

They have become the latest of a number of hospitals across the UK which have been affected by such issues, including West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds which was hit by ward closures earlier this month.

All of the hospitals have advised visitors to follow hygiene procedures, while those suffering any symptoms have been told to not come to the hospitals until the issues have passed.

Specialists at Irwin Mitchell act for victims who have had their lives turned upside down by long-term health problems caused by illnesses including norovirus which have been contracted both in the UK and abroad.

Suki Chhokar, a Partner who represents those affected by such issues, said: “Through our work, we have seen how norovirus can have a lasting impact on some sufferers, leaving them with long-term symptoms and health problems which they never fully recover from.

“Many hospitals have been affected by outbreaks over the winter months and it is vital that lessons can be learned from these problems which will hopefully mean that the number of instances in the future can be reduced.

“We hope that all of the NHS which have been affected are also able to assess hygiene standards and other aspects which could boost standards in relation into how such problems are managed.”