VISITING has been suspended on Ward 6 at Furness General Hospital (FGH) in Barrow after a norovirus outbreak affecting patients and staff.

University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust said to keep everyone safe, the suspension of visiting will remain in place until this coming weekend when the situation will be reviewed.

Relatives and carers of patients on Ward 6 are being contacted directly to let them know about the suspension of visiting.

A spokesperson from UHMBT said: "We wish to reassure everyone that all steps are being taken to contain the virus and stop it spreading."

"Any calls need to go through the UHMBT Switchboard on: 01229 870870.

"We would like to thank everyone for their patience and support at this time. Further updates will be shared in due course."

Norovirus, also called the 'winter vomiting bug', is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about two days.

The main symptoms of norovirus are feeling sick, diarrhoea and vomiting. Others also experience a high temperature, a headache, and aching arms and legs.

The symptoms start suddenly within one to two days of being infected.

Norovirus can spread very easily and can be caught from close contact with someone with norovirus, touching surfaces or objects that have the virus on them, then touching your mouth and eating food that's been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus.

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. Alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.

Those infected can usually treat themselves or their child at home.

The NHS notes that the most important thing is to rest and have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Those infected will usually start to feel better in two to three days.

NHS England guidance on norovirus is on this link: https://ow.ly/29Bn50SEbWI.