Visiting Temporarily Suspended at St Richard's Due to Norovirus Outbreak

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust say they have taken the significant step to keep patients safe.

Its in a bid to try to stop the spread of the stomach bug, which is seriously affecting several wards. Almost 30 beds are closed and empty because of the virus, and a Critical Incident has been declared.

Some ambulances will also be diverted to other hospitals.

People are being asked not to attend A&E unless they are sure they need emergency care – there are currently more than 100 patients in the emergency department, many of whom have already been there for more than 12 hours. If in doubt, contact NHS 111 (via 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111), to get expert advice and care.

No visitors will be allowed on site, unless in very limited circumstances – effectively those visiting loved ones receiving end of life care, or parents and carers of neonates and children. People are advised to contact the relevant ward in such circumstances to discuss their situation with staff.

The Critical Incident will be in place for at least 24 hours from today (Friday, 5 April).

Dr George Findlay, chief executive officer of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust which runs St Richard’s, said:

“Declaring a Critical Incident is a really serious step to take, but we do not currently have any alternative. As things stand we simply had to take these actions to ensure we have the number of beds we need, for the people who need them most.

“Our message to people is simple – if you are not absolutely sure you need A&E, please use the alternatives first. Visit 111.nhs.uk, or call 111, and let the experts there give you help and advice.

“I absolutely understand that people want to visit their relatives and friends in hospital, but we must temporarily ask that people stay away. We simply must reduce the risk of spreading the virus more – many of our patients are vulnerable to infection, and would be at risk.

“Our staff need the time and space to get services back to normal. If you need them, they will be there for you, but please understand that they need your help and support, too. Only use them if you have to.”

The Critical Incident and ambulance divert will be continually reviewed throughout the weekend, but will be in place until at least Saturday afternoon (6 April). The Trust will update this page, and will also publish more information through our social media channels.

Dr Findlay added: “We apologise to anyone who is inconvenienced by this, or worried – truly, we would not do this if it was avoidable.

“And I would like to thank our many NHS partners for the invaluable help they are providing at this time. We all know just how disruptive it is to divert ambulances from an A&E, but everyone has been incredibly supportive.”