Immediate restrictions put in place in UK hospital as outbreak sweeps through wards

An NHS hospital in Greater Manchester has announced restrictions on visiting following an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug, norovirus. Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Stepping Hill Hospital, said it was “experiencing a very high number of cases of norovirus on our hospital wards”. The stomach bug causes symptoms including diarrhoea and vomiting, a high temperature, headache and body aches and pains.

The restrictions mean visiting is suspended for all patients “with limited exceptions including those at the end of their life, with learning disabilities or dementia”. A statement from the trust added: “We usually offer open visiting for those who wish to spend time with their loved ones, and we recognise the important benefits this brings for patients, families and carers.

“However, because of the increasing risk from norovirus to our vulnerable patients, and pressures on our services, unfortunately we are having to put visiting restrictions in place.”

The restrictions are due to be reviewed on Friday, February 20. Hospital chiefs said the measures would be lifted “when it is safe to do so”.

The trust added: “Patients whose wellbeing will be adversely affected by these restrictions, such as patients with dementia, neurodiverse conditions or learning disabilities, may still have visitors, but please contact the ward staff to discuss in advance.”

Other measures introduced as a result go the outbreak included additional cleaning, raised awareness to identify infected patients early and greater emphasis on the importance of hand hygiene. 

Latest data from the UK Health Security Agency last week showed norovirus cases remained high but were beginning to stabilise.

The number of hospital outbreaks reported at the start of the 2025/26 season was a fifth lower than the five-year average.

Amy Douglas, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "Norovirus activity has remained high in recent weeks.

"We are seeing signs that the virus is stabilising at these high levels, but we need to start seeing a decline if we are to reduce the impact that this virus has on our communities and health system.

“We are seeing the highest number of cases among individuals aged 65 years and over and outbreaks in hospital settings have increased too, so please remember the simple steps we can all take to stop norovirus spreading.

“Wash your hands with soap and warm water and use bleach-based products to clean surfaces to help stop infections spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.

“If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, don’t return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either.

"If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection to those most vulnerable.”