Advice on winter bugs

Ruth Walker, Director of Nursing for Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, said: “As is common for health boards across Wales at this time of year we are seeing instances of viral gastroenteritis, and are taking appropriate measures to limit its effects.

 

“This has included closing some wards to new admissions and restricting visiting times in some areas.

 

“We do have very good infection control procedures in place and these are helping to manage the situation. However we would ask the public to play their part and heed the advice from Public Health Wales on good hand hygiene and that anyone with symptoms should stay at home while they are unwell and for 48 hours afterwards to avoid spreading illness to other people.”

 

Hospital visitors should speak with ward staff for information on visiting times and how they can help reduce the effect of the virus.

 

Here is Public Health Wales’ advice if you have symptoms.

 

1. Careful handwashing is the most important preventative measure that you can take. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and dry afterwards. Do not share towels.

 

2. Use gloves when handling soiled articles from ill people. Wash soiled clothing and bed linen on ‘hot cycle’.

 

3. If looking after someone with gastroenteritis, carefully disinfect toilet seats, flush handles, wash-hand basin taps and toilet door handles daily and after use. Use a bleach-based household cleaner, diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

 

4. Maintain good personal hygiene and hygienic preparation and serving of food.

 

5. If you have viral gastroenteritis, don’t return to school or work until you have been symptom-free for 48 hours. Don't visit patients in local hospitals and long-term care facilities. While many people tend to feel better sooner, illness can still be spread if they return to work or school within 48 hours since the last symptom.