Cork University Hospital extends visitor restrictions

Cork University Hospital extends visitor restrictions

It has been necessary to introduce further visitor restrictions at Cork University Hospital starting today, due to an ongoing Norovirus outbreak at the hospital with the aim to reduce the spread of the virus.

Visiting is permitted only on compassionate grounds and visitors must contact the ward in advance of visiting. This can be done by calling the hospital switchboard on 021 492 2000 and asking to be put through to the individual ward.

The hospital is dealing with an outbreak of Norovirus (also known as the winter vomiting bug).

CUH Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Kearney said:

"We must introduce further visitor restrictions in light of the increasing cases of Norovirus circulating at CUH. The virus can spread quickly and easily, so we are taking these measures hospital will contain the virus more quickly and keep patients and staff safe”.

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

Norovirus causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It is one of the most common stomach bugs in Ireland and is also called the 'winter vomiting bug'. While it is more common in winter, you can catch it at any time of the year.

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