Four hospitals in Northern Ireland have been forced to close more than 70 beds to new admissions because of a virus affecting patients and staff.
According to a spokeswoman for the Northern Ireland Department of Health, symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea have been reported at Lagan Valley Hospital in Lisburn, Co Antrim and the Royal Hospital in Belfast, Craigavon Hospital in Co Armagh.
The Downe Hospital in Downpatrick, Co Down, has also put in place control measures following the discovery of five suspected cases yesterday.
The Royal Hospital confirmed 20 beds have been closed due to the virus. The hospital intends sterilising the ward after the remaining 40 patients have been discharged. Only parts of the Royal Hospital is affected and admissions are continuing in other areas of building.
Nineteen staff are out sick at Lagan Valley which has reported the virus in two medical wards. Downpatrick has closed 18 beds to new admissions.
The virus is present among the public and is being carried into the hospitals by patients and visitors.
As part of contingency plans, Musgrave Park Hospital, Belfast, will make operating theatres available to treat fracture patients.
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