PATIENTS are being turned away from the Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) in Farnborough after an outbreak of the norovirus.

Around 50 cases of the sickness and diarrhoea bug have been diagnosed at the hospital in the last week, and patients with symptoms of the virus are being refused entry.

South London Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, is also limiting the number of visitors to two per patient.

A spokesman for the Trust said: “Infection prevention and control procedures are being reinforced to ensure that this doesn't spread to other patients.

“We are restricting visitors to two per patient and members of the public who have had diarrhoea and/or vomiting in the previous three days must not attend the hospital either as a visitor or patient.

“If you are unwell, you should follow the advice given below about getting enough fluids. If you need further advice for you or your family, please contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or speak to your local pharmacist.”

As well as sickness and diarrhoea, symptoms of norovirus can include fever, headache, stomach cramps and aching limbs.

Symptoms can last for 12 to 60 hours, but most people recover within two days.

The Trust spokesman said: “There is no specific treatment but it is important people with diarrhoea and vomiting drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

“The virus is easily spread from person to person therefore individuals should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with an affected person or environment.”