People are being asked not to visit hospital with symptoms of norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, as cases rise across the area.
The virus is highly-contagious, therefore people experiencing symptoms of norovirus are being asked to stay at home, not to visit friends or relatives in hospital or nursing homes and to be extra vigilant in terms of hygiene.
Symptoms include sudden onset of nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pains or cramps, headaches, fever and tiredness.
Although norovirus can be unpleasant, it’s not usually dangerous for people in general good health, and most people make a full recovery within a couple of days without having to see their GP. The virus can, however, be more serious for patients who are already weak and may result in them having to stay in hospital for longer.