Dr Gray's hospital suspends visiting and closes wards after 'diarrhoea and vomiting outbreak'

Dr Gray’s hospital has suspended all but “essential” visiting after a diarrhoea and vomiting outbreak.

A statement from NHS Grampian on Sunday said that more than 50 patients and staff had been affected at the hospital in Elgin.

Wards five, six, and seven have been closed to new admissions as a result of the outbreak.

Visitors will only be allowed in when someone is reaching the end of their life, if someone has dementia and needs family support, supporting someone with a learning disability, situations where someone is receiving life-changing information or a family member who has caring responsibilities.

Parents of a child in hospital and support during pregnancy and childbirth will also be allowed.

Duty manager at Dr Gray’s Louise Pearson said: “We have made this decision to protect patients, family members and staff until the situation is resolved.

“Wards five, six, and seven are currently closed to new admissions as a result of the outbreak, but we have taken the difficult decision to suspend non-essential visiting across the entire hospital in an effort to prevent any further spread.

“We understand the vital support that family and friends provide and are sorry for how this will affect you.

“Ward iPads are available to support people to stay in touch with friends and family virtually, for further information, patients and their families should speak with our ward staff.”

Ms Pearson added the ward closures were limiting the ability to admit patients to hospital wards and this was impacting Dr Gray’s Emergency Department.

She said: “We would assure the public that those facing life-threatening situations are continuing to be seen rapidly for life-saving treatment, as an absolute priority.

“It is vital patients phone NHS 24 on 111 before attending the Emergency Department or a Minor Injury Unit – unless the situation is life threatening, for instance a suspected stroke of heart attack, in which case you should call 999.

“Using the 111 service allows us to keep waiting times to a minimum and better manage hospital capacity.”