Lincolnshire health chiefs urge people to stay away as hospitals struggle with norovirus

People are being urged to stay away from hospitals wherever possible and consider other sources of healthcare.

Local hospitals are continuing to face severe disruption due to norovirus and high attendances, with restricted visiting now in place at Boston’s Pilgrim Hospital.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT) manages Lincoln, Boston and Grantham hospitals and is working with the county’s four clinical commissioning groups to get the message across that people should not visit hospital – even to see family and friends – unless is it absolutely necessary.

Tracy Pilcher, chief nurse at Lincolnshire East Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “In addition to the pressure A&E is under, our local hospitals are also dealing with high attendances and an outbreak of norovirus, the latter of which is particularly affecting Lincoln County Hospital.

“ULHT needs all of us to help it manage the situation and the best way the public can help is by staying away from hospital and using other sources of information, such as NHS 111, local pharmacies, walk-in centres and minor injuries units, for healthcare advice.”

Diarrhoea and vomiting are symptoms of norovirus, which can be potentially serious for people who are already ill or those with long-term conditions. Good hand hygiene can help limit the spread of infection and whilst people usually recover without treatment in 24-72 hours, medical professionals say it is important to stay away from work, school, college or social gatherings until symptom free for at least 48 hours.

A spokesman said: “Most cases of diarrhoea clear up after a few days without treatment, however, it can lead to dehydration, so you should drink plenty of fluids (small, frequent sips of water) until it passes.

“It is very important that babies and small children do not become dehydrated. You should eat solid food as soon as you feel able to.

“If you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding your baby and they have diarrhoea, you should try to feed them as normal.”

Local pharmacies are able to provide a wealth of confidential and expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and complaints. In addition, NHS 111 can support when medical help is needed fast but not in an emergency and is available 24/7 365 days of the year.