Beaumont Hospital access restricted due to vomiting bug

Visitors will only be permitted into Dublin's Beaumont Hospital this weekend in "exceptional circumstances" as the hospital attempts to battle an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug.

The measure will also apply to those seeking to visit St Joseph's Hospital in Raheny.

A similar strategy was implemented at both hospitals last weekend as officials sought to contain an outbreak of the bug in the community.

The symptoms of the bug include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. The winter vomiting bug (Norovirus) is highly contagious.

“The hospital is urging members of the public who are symptomatic of Norovirus to seek medical advice from their local GP before presenting to Beaumont Hospital emergency department,” Beaumont Hospital said in a statement.

“This is against the backdrop of an increased incidence of the winter vomiting bug in the community. Visitor exemptions may be granted at ward level in exceptional circumstances only.”