The winter vomiting bug, also known as norovirus, is continuing to affect hospitals in south Wales.

A total of 75 staff and patients currently have or have had symptoms over the last fortnight, with wards closed to new admissions at all three acute hospitals and at Gorseinon Hospital.

The whole of Gorseinon Hospital, wards C and D at Neath Port Talbot Hospital, ward B (trauma and orthopaedic) at Morriston and now ward 12 at Singleton Hospital all have confirmed cases of norovirus and have been closed to new admissions.

Norovirus has been confirmed in a number of those cases.

In addition, at least two care homes in the community have been affected by the bug and have been closed to new admissions as a result.

Swansea Bay University Health Board Infection Prevention and Control Matron Joanne Walters is urging the public to help control the spread of the virus, which is very easily passed from person to person, by:

Washing their hands regularly with soap and water (hand sanitizers do not work against norovirus)
Staying away from hospitals and other busy, communal areas like supermarkets if you are unwell (or caring for someone with the bug), even if the symptoms are mild or abating, for at least 48 but up to 72 hours
Managing symptoms at home with over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol and by maintaining hydration by having small, regular amounts of fluid, preferably water or rehydration remedies. You can also dial NHS Direct on 111 for advice if you are unwell. Do not come to ED.

Joanne added:

“We are doing everything we can to halt the spread of the virus, but we cannot do this alone. The public’s help is essential.”