HOSPITAL visiting restrictions have been put in place at Withybush Hospital, following several patients showing symptoms associated with norovirus.

Hywel Dda health board has said several patients on Ward 3 have exhibited symptoms, and visiting is temporarily restricted to those who are critically unwell or who require additional support from carers.

Sharon Daniel, assistant director of nursing (infection prevention and control), said: "Illnesses such as diarrhoea and vomiting can pass from one person to another very easily.

"I would urge people who are feeling unwell or have been in contact with someone who has these symptoms not to visit patients in hospital at this time as viruses can be serious for sick and vulnerable patients.”

Symptoms of norovirus include nausea (feeling queasy) diarrhoea and vomiting.

If you are experiencing these symptoms it is important to wash and dry your hands thoroughly after going to the toilet and before you handle food to prevent it being passed on to others.

Infection control measures are in place to reduce the risk of spread of infection and visitors are requested to check the latest situation with the ward before visiting, particularly over the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

For further advice on preventing the spread of infection please visit: http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/862/page/75416