Hospital restricts visitors after vomiting bug outbreak

Restrictions have been placed on visitors to Kerry General Hospital because of an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug

Restrictions have been placed on visitors to Kerry General Hospital because of an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug. The hospital is only open to visitors from 2pm-4pm and 6.30pm-8.30pm, two visitors are allowed per patient and no children are allowed to visit. Security personnel were on duty to implement the restrictions.

PJ Harnett, general manager of the hospital, said: “The bug is currently prevalent in the community and visitors may unknowingly bring the bug into the hospital when visiting sick relatives or friends.”

There are exceptions to the visiting hours on five wards, including intensive care and the maternity unit; parents and guardians may visit the children’s ward at any time.

People affected by the bug, or who have been in contact with others affected, are asked not to visit any healthcare facility for 72 hours in order to limit its spread.