Two wards at an Essex hospital have today been closed to new admissions because of norovirus.

It has led to a senior infection control nurse appealing for anyone who has had diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours to stay away from Colchester General Hospital.

Two ‘care of the elderly’ wards and one bay on a contingency ward at the hospital have been closed to new admissions.

Heather Dakin, senior infection control nurse, said there were currently about a dozen patients with symptoms.

“We’ve got more patients with norovirus than at any point in the winter, when the number of cases tends to peak,” she added.

“We would urge anyone thinking of visiting a loved one at Colchester General Hospital or Essex County Hospital to stay away if they have had diarrhoea or vomiting within the past 48 hours.

“If you’re fully fit, please do visit but be extra vigilant about washing your hands with soap and water and then again with the alcohol gel provided when arriving and leaving the ward.”

Mrs Dakin said she was aware of a high number of cases of diarrhoea and vomiting in the community.

Many nursing homes in north east Essex are currently affected and the A&E department at Colchester General Hospital has also seen young people present with the symptoms.

Those with symptoms are advised to say at home, drink plenty of fluids, and remember to wash their hands before preparing food, before eating and after using the toilet.

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, it is recommended to call a GP or 111 for help and advice.