Visitors to Wales’ largest hospital have been banned following a rise in cases of norovirus.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board said on Friday it has been forced to close several beds across wards due to a rise in cases of the sickness bug. It added it has introduced a ‘No Visiting Policy,’ meaning visitors will not be allowed on site at this time to reduce the spread of infection.
In a statement, the health board said, “This is not a decision we have taken lightly, but one that is imperative to protect our patients, staff, and visitors, and reduce the spread of infection.”
It added exceptions will be made for patients who are critically ill, receiving end-of-life care, as well as birthing partners and those visiting the Children’s Hospital for Wales.
Outpatient appointments will continue as scheduled unless patients are contacted directly by the department.
They also said, “Visitors who meet the visiting criteria will be required to follow strict hygiene practices, including washing hands thoroughly with soap and water and using hand sanitiser to help prevent the spread of infection”.
The Board will review these restrictions next week to assess if the situation has improved, for now it remains closed.