Two wards re-open at Raigmore Hospital
Two wards at Raigmore Hospital have re-opened following an outbreak of norovirus although two others still remain closed to new admissions and visitors.
Ward 2C was closed to new admissions and visitors on February 20 because of the virus which causes sickness and diarrhoea. But NHS Highland said it was able to re-open following a deep clean and the ward was now fully operational.
Ward 6C had one bay closed and visiting was suspended on Friday as a precaution. But following investigation by the infection prevention and control team, norovirus had not been found on the ward and it had also re-opened.
Wards 7C and 2A remain closed to new admissions and visiting is suspended.
An NHS Highland spokeswoman said: "There is no specific treatment for a norovirus infection and it is not usually necessary to visit a doctor.
"The best course of action is to stay at home and to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. People should also adhere to strict hand washing techniques to reduce the spread of the virus."
The public is urged to help to minimise the spread by following simple rules:
• Do not visit a hospital if you or someone you live with has symptoms. If you have a hospital appointment, please get in touch and, where appropriate, your appointment can be rescheduled.
• Wait until you have been clear of symptoms for 72 hours, as you may still be contagious, even if you feel well.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
• If you visit someone in hospital, don’t sit on their bed and keep the number of visitors to a minimum at any one time. Never touch dressings, drips, or other equipment around the bed.
* For more information about hand hygiene visit the Scottish National Hand Hygiene Campaign website www.washyourhandsofthem.com
