Cork University Hospital restricts visits amid ‘unprecedented surge’ in norovirus cases

Cork University Hospital (CUH) is strictly enforcing visitor restrictions as an “unprecedented surge” in norovirus cases impacts several wards, and several strains of the virus are circulating at the hospital.

According to the HSE South West branch, the highest level of visitor restrictions have now been implemented at the facility. A spokesperson said the hospital is experiencing an “unprecedented surge” in norovirus cases, otherwise known as the winter vomiting bug.

Symptoms include the sudden onset of severe vomiting and diarrhoea, and the virus can spread between people extremely easily.

CUH chief executive Jennifer Kearney said “unapproved visiting” to the hospital is no longer permitted.

“Outbreaks are currently affecting multiple wards, and several strains of the virus are circulating."

“In the interests of protecting vulnerable patients and your own health, unapproved visiting to the hospital is not permitted at this time.

“The public should be aware that all entrances to the hospital have been secured, and the hospital is being carefully managed. The hospital thanks the public for their co-operation as staff work to protect patients and bring the outbreak under control.”

Members of the public are asked not to attend the hospital campus to visit friends or relatives, unless prior approved on compassionate grounds with the clinical team.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea is also asked not to attend the hospital unless they require urgent medical care.

Consultant microbiologist at CUH, Aaron Doherty, said norovirus spreads very easily in healthcare settings, and even brief visits can result in infection and further spread to patients, staff, and families.