A luxury hotel in Co Westmeath has temporarily closed after a norovirus outbreak at the venue, affecting weddings due to take place in the coming days.
Glasson Lakehouse, a four-star hotel 13km from Athlone town, closed on Wednesday following advice from the HSE.
The hotel, located beside Lough Ree, is a popular wedding venue. The golf course and spa located at the resort are also closed following the outbreak.
Two weddings were due to take place at the hotel this weekend.
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“We are doing everything we can to look after everyone affected and are seeking alternative venues for guests and events to minimise the inconvenience caused,” a spokeswoman for the hotel said.
It is unclear when the resort will reopen, but members of the golf club received a message saying that the facilities would be closed until at least Monday.
Norovirus, which causes diarrhoea and vomiting, is one of the most common stomach bugs.
“It is with regret that we have decided to temporarily close our premises as a precautionary measure following an outbreak of norovirus,” a statement from the hotel said.
“We notified the HSE when we became aware that some recent guests and team members exhibited symptoms.
“In consultation with the HSE, we implemented a voluntary closure and are working closely with the HSE to carry out all appropriate control measures, which we have acted on immediately.”
A spokeswoman told The Irish Times that the hotel management “deeply” regretted the inconvenience caused and thanked guests for their patience.
“We will continue to work closely with health authorities and will provide an update regarding our reopening as soon as possible.”
[ Norovirus: What are the symptoms and when should I go to the GP?Opens in new window ]
In a statement, the HSE said it had been investigating the outbreak of gastrointestinal illness since Monday.
“The public health team is working closely with HSE National Environmental Health Service colleagues and the premises to ensure all appropriate actions are being taken and is working to contact affected people with advice.
“Management and staff at the premises are co-operating fully with public health advice. The premises has voluntarily closed to facilitate outbreak control measures.”
The HSE said careful food handling and hand hygiene help prevent the spread of norovirus. The public health advice is that people who are unwell should stay off work or school until symptom free for 48 hours.
Members of the golf club received a message that the hotel and all outside facilities would be closed from 1pm on Wednesday until Monday morning due to a “major maintenance issue”.
“Obviously, this is a huge inconvenience for all to say the least, but the safety of all Glasson Lakehouse customers/members is paramount to us,” the message said.
“For the time being golf on the course and range is not permitted.”
The notice apologised for the inconvenience caused, saying members would be updated again as soon as possible.
Rooms or suites advertised on the hotel’s website for various dates in September range in price from €365 to €741 per night.
