IPSWICH: Visitors who are unwell have been urged to avoid Ipswich Hospital after a handful of patients developed a sickness bug.

IPSWICH: Visitors who are unwell have been urged to avoid Ipswich Hospital after a handful of patients developed a sickness bug.

Sproughton wards with 20 beds and Stowupland ward, which has 25 beds, have both been closed to new admission after several people showed symptoms of the virus.

Stringent measures have been put in place to stem the spread of the illness, such as isolating the sufferers in single-bed rooms.

Patients elsewhere in the hospital are being closely monitored and cleaning staff have stepped up their routines since the wards closed.

Gwen Collins, director of nursing and quality, said: “Our biggest message is please don't visit a loved one or friend if you are sick yourself.

“If you are able to visit, please make sure you wash your hands with soap and water on arrival at the ward and again before you leave.”

Visitors who are ill are urged to stay away until at least 72 hours after they have recovered, even if they feel better.