Norovirus outbreak hits hospital

Patients at a Northumberland hospital have been hit by an outbreak of the norovirus winter vomiting bug.

Three wards have been affected at Wansbeck Hospital in Ashington, where several bays have been isolated to contain the virus.

Visitors are being urged to wash their hands thoroughly and anyone who has been in contact with a person suffering from the illness is urged to stay away.

A hospital spokesman said the virus should run its course fairly quickly.

Norovirus causes vomiting, diarrhoea and fever symptoms, which last about two days.

Practising good hygiene by washing hands regularly reduces the chance of passing on the infection.