YORK Hospital is recovering after being hit by a fresh bout of the norovirus winter vomiting bug.

Two wards were closed to admissions – with bays closed in another two wards – earlier this week as staff worked to tackle the illness.

Their efforts had paid off by yesterday lunchtime, when all wards were reopened to admissions. The outbreak had prompted hospital bosses to urge visitors to stay away if they had any signs or symptoms of the virus.

But they also praised “fantastic” staff for their efforts to keep equipment clean and to care for patients in an effort to prevent the illness spreading.

The hospital has been affected by the virus several times over the winter. The norovirus loosened its grip at the end of December, so that by early January no wards were closed.

But, by late January, it had returned, with seven wards partially shut because of suspected cases.

Libby McManus, chief nurse for York Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said today the latest cases were an “absolutely typical picture” for this time of year.

She said there had been several confirmed cases of norovirus on the two wards which were closed to admissions earlier this week, and suspected cases in two more wards where the bays were closed to admissions.

“Our staff have been fantastic, paying attention to detail in terms of cleaning equipment and caring for patients in a bid to limit the spread of the virus,” she said.

“We must once again ask that visitors stay away if they have signs or symptoms of the virus (i.e. vomiting or diarrhoea), and that they do not visit until they have been clear of symptoms for at least 48 hours.”

She said visitors should keep their hands clean, and avoid bringing children into the hospital where possible.

“Patients and visitors can find advice and reassurance by visiting the infection prevention and control section of our website: www.yorkhospitals.nhs.uk,” she added.