Wards closed as norovirus outbreak takes 12 ill at Wolverhampton's New Cross Hospital

A ward for elderly male patients and several other ward bays have been closed as bosses put precautionary measures in place.

It is the second outbreak in three months at the hospital.

All affected wards and bays are closed for new admissions and will only reopen once patients have been symptom-free for at least 72 hours.

Visiting restrictions have also been put in place, with reduced hours and visitors. People are advised to call the hospital before attending to see relatives.

Gwen Nuttall, chief operating officer at New Cross, said: "We would advise anyone planning to visit the hospital to stay away if they have any of the symptoms of this condition – such as vomiting or diarrhoea – or have had these symptoms in the past few days.

"People visiting the hospital for treatment, or to see in-patients, should avoid the areas affected by norovirus and make sure they use the hand sanitizer gel provided throughout the building."

Health bosses advise that anyone developing symptoms should stay at home, as visiting their GP or the hospital will just put others at risk of catching the infection.