Sixteen new cases of the winter vomiting virus have been detected at Dublin's Beaumont hospital today despite attempts to stop the spread of the highly contagious bug.
The norovirus outbreak continues to affect a majority of wards and, at lunchtime today, 53 patients were displaying symptoms, a hospital spokesman said. A total of 22 beds have been closed in affected wards.
Only "absolutely essential" visits are being permitted and only one visitor will be allowed per patient.
Children are not allowed to visit and the hospital has advised visitors to keep strictly within the permitted visiting times of 2-4pm and 6-8pm.
People who fall sick with norovirus symptoms are urged to stay away from the hospital and to drink plenty of water.
Norovirus usually lasts 24 to 48 hours and does not usually require medical treatment.
