Virus victims asked to stay away from hospital

Norovirus sufferers are also being asked not to turn up at Barnsley Hospital’s A and E department for treatment unless they have been advised to.

The warning follows a rise in the number of people turning up at A and E with a combination of sickness and diarrhoea.

Elizabeth Shassere, director of public health for Barnsley said: “Simply put please don’t go to the hospital if you have symptoms of cold, flu, vomiting or diarrhoea.

“Norovirus is a particular problem because it is spread between people very easily.

“It is unpleasant for those who get it but is not generally dangerous and most people will make a full recovery within a couple of days without having to see a doctor.

“Unless people are particularly concerned about their health, they should avoid going into hospital or visiting a GP.

“The best advice for anyone suffering from sickness and diarrhoea is to rest and drink plenty of fluids.”

She added: “The elderly and very young can sometimes get a more severe infection or become dehydrated.

“If that should be the case, they or their family, friends or the people who care for them should telephone their GP service or NHS Direct for advice.

“To reduce the risk of passing the virus onto others, wash your hands regularly and stay at home until you are clear of symptoms for 48 hours.”