Relatives and carers are being asked to help reduce the risk of spreading Norovirus by phoning wards before visiting the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro, and West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance.

Consultant nurse and joint director of infection prevention and control, Louise Dickinson, said: “We know there are currently high levels of the Norovirus bug, which causes sickness and diarrhoea, in the community and have seen an increase in the number of patients with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting .

"It is important for us to respond quickly when Norovirus is brought into our hospitals in order to minimise disruption as it can spread easily and rapidly.

"We are not putting a stop on visiting but are asking all visitors to ring the ward they wish to visit for advice before setting out and hope they will support our request for help.”

Louise added: “We would ask that visiting is kept to close family and friends, who can keep their wider family and friends informed about the wellbeing of the person in hospital. Young children should also avoid visiting.”

Outpatient clinics are not affected but anyone who has had symptoms of diarrhoea and/ or vomiting, or has been in contact with anyone with these symptoms, should avoid coming to hospital until at least 48 hours after their symptoms have gone. Patients will be contacted personally if there is any need to change a planned appointment.

In most cases, Norovirus is generally mild and people will usually recover fully within two to three days. Good hygiene is important in preventing others from becoming infected – this includes thorough hand washing using soap and warm water, as alcohol hand gels will not kill the virus.

More information on Norovirus can be found on the NHS Choices website: www.nhs.uk.