PUBLIC Health Wales is reminding local people of important steps to take as norovirus is known to be circulating in the community in north Wales.

The reminder comes as a number of wards at Wrexham Maelor, Chirk Community and Mold Community Hospitals are closed or partially closed to admissions due to outbreaks of norovirus.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has issued advice to visitors, patients and staff about the best ways to limit the spread of norovirus, but due to the nature and seasonality of the disease, Public Health Wales is also advising people in north Wales how to avoid catching and spreading norovirus.

Dr Graham Brown, consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales, said: “Norovirus used to be known as the ‘winter vomiting disease’, and it is the most common cause of stomach bugs in the UK.

“Norovirus can be easily passed from person to person so it is quite common for there to be outbreaks in institutions like hospitals, schools, residential and nursing homes, and hotels, especially when it is already circulating in the community.

“Norovirus is very easy to spread and catch, but it has a short life span meaning that symptoms usually only last up to a few days.

“Anyone with diarrhoea and/or vomiting is always advised to stay away from hospitals, work, school or nursery while they are symptomatic and for 48 hours after their symptoms stop.

“Anyone who is concerned about their health should contact their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.”