COVENTRY and Warwickshire’s University Hospital remains unaffected by norovirus – as hospitals and schools across the country have been severely affected by the winter vomiting bug.
Finham Park School in Coventry reopened on Wednesday (December 11) after closing on Monday and Tuesday due to “high levels” of teachers and pupils being struck down by the contagious bug. The closure allowed for a deep clean of the school and affected pupils and staff to recover.
At the beginning of December Public Health England reported more than 1,100 hospital beds had been forced to close due to norovirus and data revealed higher than average levels of the infection in November.
A spokesperson for University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust told us: “We can confirm there has been no wider impact on either of our hospital sites due to norovirus, although we are aware it is circulating in the local community.
“Norovirus is a really unpleasant illness to catch, but for the vast majority of people it will usually pass in a couple of days and self-treating at home is the best way to help yourself and avoid putting others at risk.
“Crucially, if you’re experiencing symptoms, it’s important you don’t return to work or school for 48 hours after they clear – and avoid visiting elderly or ill friends and relatives – to avoid spreading it to other people.
“Good hand hygiene can help limit the spread of the infection. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water, particularly after using the toilet, and before preparing food or eating.”
Further health advice on norovirus can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Norovirus/
