TWO wards have closed at Dorset County Hospital after an outbreak of the vomiting and diarrhoea bug Norovirus.

Two of the Dorchester hospital’s wards – the Barnes Ward and Hinton Ward - are currently closed to new admissions following the suspected outbreak.

Hospital bosses are now asking the public to help contain the spread by staying away from the hospital if they have any of the virus’s symptoms.

A Dorset County Hospital spokesperson confirmed that a total of 17 patients have been affected so far.

Director of Nursing and Infection Prevention and Control Alison Tong said: “We would ask anyone with symptoms of vomiting or diarrhoea to stay away from the hospital until they have been symptom free for 48 hours.

“Visitors with symptoms should not visit friends or relatives on wards or accompany them to outpatient appointments.

“Any patients with symptoms due to come in for an appointment should call the number on their letter to inform the appointments team and rearrange their appointment.

“Hand hygiene is extremely important and we are asking anyone coming into the hospital to thoroughly wash their hands at the hand hygiene stations before entering wards and departments.”

If you have had symptoms and are unsure whether you should come into hospital for an appointment or to see a friend or relative please call the ward or department you are due to visit or you can contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service on 0800 7838058.