Visitor restrictions at CUH due to vomiting bug outbreak

Visitor restrictions are in place at Cork University Hospital to reduce the spread of the highly infectious norovirus.

Limited visiting is still permitted but HSE South West has appealed to the public not to visit CUH or any other facility if they have symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting to limit the spread of the virus and to help keep vulnerable patients safe.

The Cork hospital is dealing with an outbreak of norovirus (also known as the winter vomiting bug) which is affecting two wards, with other wards under observation.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Under the current restrictions:

- only one visitor is permitted per patient

- visiting hours of 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm must be strictly adhered to. 

- all visitors must use the alcohol hand gels supplied as they enter and leave the hospital.

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

"We are introducing these visitor restrictions in light of the increasing cases of Norovirus circulating at CUH," CUH Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Kearney said.

"This is an unpleasant virus which can spread quickly and easily, so we are taking these measures within the hospital to keep patients safe.

“The one-visitor restriction is vital to avoid spreading the virus to patients, visitors and staff. Anyone with symptoms of diarrhoea and/or vomiting should not visit the hospital. CUH would like to thank the public for their co-operation at this time.” 

See: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/norovirus/