HOSPITALS are warning visitors to stay away after a norovirus outbreak in the community.

Data from Public Health England (PHE) shows there have been 1,704 cases of the contagious vomiting bug norovirus in England confirmed by laboratory testing so far this season.

This is nine per cent higher than the average for the same period over the last five years and 55 per cent higher than the same period last year.

NHS England said over the past month there have been twice as many community outbreaks reported in the South West Compared to last year - mainly in care homes, nurseries and schools.

Both Poole Hospital NHS Trust and Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Trust have urged people to keep away from the hospital if they are suffering symptoms.

Paula Shobbrook, director of nursing and midwifery at the trust, said: “Norovirus season is here and we know we’ve got norovirus in the community at the moment.

“If you have diarrhoea or vomiting, keep out of the hospital. We are trying to protect our most vulnerable patients and we don’t want norovirus coming into the hospital.”

Norovirus is the most common stomach bug in the UK, affecting people of all ages. It is highly contagious and is transmitted by contact with contaminated surfaces, an infected person, or consumption of contaminated food or water.

There is no treatment, but most sufferers will recover within a few days if they stay well hydrated. It can, however, cause serious health problems for patients already ill in hospital.

People are advised to wash their hands thoroughly using soap and water and drying them after using the toilet, before preparing food and eating. They should not rely on alcohol gels as these do not kill the virus.

If people do develop symptoms, they should avoid GP surgeries and hospitals to help stop the infection spreading.

Bharat Pankhania, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health England South West, said: “To reduce the risk of catching it people need to wash their hands regularly and thoroughly, but if they do develop vomiting or diarrhoea, seek advice from a pharmacist or NHS 111.

“Please don’t visit vulnerable family and friends, especially in hospital or in care homes, until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.”