Another of Dublin's hospitals has been hit by an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug, with St Vincent's urging the public to stay away from the accident and emergency department unless absolutely necesary.
Some 50 patients throughout the hospital's wards have been affected by the norovirus outbreak.
Testrictions have also been put in place, with visitors urged to curtail their time at the hospital and avoid bringing children along with them on visits.
Those who believe they are suffering from symptoms, such as an upset stomach, should visit their GP first, the hospital said.
"We are taking all appropriate steps to combat the spread of this infection and these visiting restrictions are essential for the health and safety of patients, visitors and staff. We know from past experience that without the cooperation of the public this virus can spread very quickly throughout the hospital, causing discomfort to patients and further disrupting services."
Last week, Beaumont Hospital cancelled all non-urgent inpatient elective procedures after 92 patients on 19 wards and a number of staff were hit by the bug. It also barred visitors from the wards,apart from in exceptional circumstances.
