Ward closed at hospital

A ward at Noble’s Hospital has been temporarily closed after an outbreak of viral gastroenteritis.

The Department of Health and Social security says the action was taken after staff and patients on Ward 1 fell ill.

In a statement, the DHSS says strict hygiene precautions are in place and visitors have been asked to cooperate.

Anybody who has vomiting and/or diarrhoea is being advised not to go to the hospital and to wait until 48 hours after symptoms have cleared up before mixing with other people.

People who feel ill should also stay away from accident and emergency at the hospital, and instead contact their GP over the phone.