Immediately ban on hospital visitors after outbreak of norovirus cases
A MAJOR norovirus outbreak has prompted UK health boards to stop all hospital visits with immediate effect.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (UHB) has announced a no visiting policy due to severe norovirus outbreaks over the last week that has affected wards and resulting in many bed closures.
The UHB runs eight hospitals, including University Hospital of Wales, University Hospital Llandough, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales, Barry Hospital, St David’s Hospital, Hafan y Coed Mental Health Unit, Cardiff Royal Infirmary and the University Dental Hospital.
Outpatient appointments will not be affected, and there will be a number of exceptions to the ban.
A spokesperson for the UHB said: “We have made the difficult decision to implement a No Visiting Policy and close the Health Board to all general visiting to manage this outbreak. This is not a decision we have taken lightly, but one that is imperative to protect our patients, staff and visitors and reduce the spread of infection.
“Exceptions will be considered, particularly for those patients who are critically ill or receiving end of life care, birthing partners and the Children’s Hospital for Wales. We will review these restrictions next week if the situation has improved.
“Visitors who meet our visiting criteria will be expected to maintain good hygiene practice by washing their hands thoroughly with soap and water, using hand sanitising gels to prevent infection and adhering to Infection Prevention and Control precautions.
“This policy relates to general visiting of patients and does not affect outpatient appointments. If patients have appointments with us, these will be going ahead unless you are contacted by the department directly to explain otherwise.
“If you are feeling unwell, please remain at home until you have been clear of symptoms for at least 48 hours. Most Norovirus cases can be managed at home with rest, fluids and self-care and symptoms typically improve within 2 to 3 days.
The dominant strain driving this outbreak has been the GII.17 genotype, which emerged as the most common since April 2024, accounting for 54.5% of characterised samples this season. However, recent data shows a shift, with the GII.4 genotype (previously dominant globally) rising to 26.8% of cases, suggesting a potential second wave. This shift means individuals who have already had norovirus this season could be at risk of reinfection, as immunity to one genotype does not fully protect against another.
The UHB advises those unsure of their symptoms to check them using the NHS 111 online symptom checker, which has a wealth of information, advice and guidance for a range of different conditions.
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