A HOSPITAL ward has been closed to new admissions following an outbreak of a winter vomiting bug.

The move was made after four new cases of Norovirus bug were diagnosed on Whatman Ward at Maidstone Hospital over the weekend.

Patients on the ward are being barrier nursed in separate bays to prevent the spread of infection, a spokesman for the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust said.

It is the second Norovirus outbreak at the hospital, after Boxley Ward had to be closed to new admissions last month.

The news comes as the Kent Health Protection Unit issued its second alert of the year to try to halt the spread of the infection.

The agency said the viral gastroenteritis bug had hit schools, hospitals, nursing and residential homes across the county.

Director Dr Mathi Chandrakumar said: “We have received many reports of the viral gastroenteritis known as Norovirus or winter vomiting disease across Kent. It is very common at this time of year.”

The symptoms nclude feeling sick; vomiting and diarrhoea. The illness is brief, usually lasting between 24 and 72 hours and it affects people of all ages; young children and the elderly are especially at risk.

Dr Chandrakumar added: “Individuals with Norovirus should stay at home and drink plenty of fluids. Good hygiene, especially careful hand washing, after using the toilet is essential.

“If the person has vomited, this needs to be cleaned up quickly and the area disinfected. Diluted bleach, one part bleach to 10 parts water, is ideal where this can safely be used.”

In most cases, sufferers do not need to seek medical attention, but if symptoms last longer than two to three days, they should consult a doctor.