Auckland.Scoop
Middlemore Hospital has closed one of its wards today, because of an outbreak of norovirus.

Radio New Zealand reports that 45 hospital personnel and 45 patients at have been infected since last Friday, prompting the closure of a rehabilitation ward.

Middlemore Hospital reports on its website this morning that the symptoms of norovirus include vomiting and diarrhoea. Norovirus symptoms usually last for 12 – 72 hours (half a day to 3 days), but it is very contagious for hospital patients, visitors and staff.

Information for visitors to Middlemore

Please do not visit hospital if you are sick, are vomiting or have diarrhoea.

Instead, we advise you to stay at home, drink plenty of fluids and rest. Consult your family doctor/GP if your symptoms are severe or call Healthline on 0800 611 116.

Please do not visit hospital until you have been free of symptoms for 48 hours (two days).

People with symptoms should avoid contact with children and infants, older people and people who already have long term conditions until they are symptom-free.

When you visit a patient in hospital, please wash your hands with soap and water before and after visiting the patient and after using the toilet.

Visitors to affected wards of the hospital may be asked to wear gloves and gowns before entering.

Please do not bring your children to visit patients in affected areas of hospital at this time.

For more information about the Norovirus, including how to limit the spread of the virus at home or in the community, please read the Norovirus pamphlet from the Auckland Regional Public Health Service.