VISITORS to Ipswich Hospital are being urged to call ahead after an outbreak of a sickness bug.

A small number of norovirus cases have been confirmed after some patients and staff fell ill earlier this week.

Siobhan Jordan, director of nursing and quality at the hospital, asked people to call ahead before visiting.

“We would appreciate it if you could call before you come into visit all wards, except for Somersham ward, the children’s ward and the maternity ward,” she said.

“This is because we are doing our best to limit the spread and risk of infection.

“We have had one or two confirmed cases of norovirus and there is a lot of it in the community at the moment. This is for the benefit of patients, visitors and our staff.”

Earlier this week Needham, Claydon, Debenham and Kesgrave wards were closed to new admissions as a result of the bug.

Check www.ipswichhospital.nhs.uk for updates on the situation.