Health chiefs have warned members of the public not to visit Paisley's Royal Alexandra Hospital if they are displaying symptoms of Covid-19 or norovirus this winter.
A number of wards have been closed to new patients as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the viruses – subsequently increasing the workload on already stretched staff.
According to the Public Health Scotland Covid-19 dashboard, there were 92 recorded cases in Renfrewshire in the latest reporting period (November 21 to November 27).
Melanie McColgan, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s (NHSGGC) director of Clyde said: “Our dedicated members of staff are working around the clock to continue to provide the highest standard of patient-centred care possible.
“During the winter months viral infections, such as Covid-19 and norovirus, can further add to the pressures hard-working staff are facing across our sites. As a precaution, and following an assessment and consultation with infection control specialists, admissions to a number of wards have been paused as a precaution.”
The symptoms of norovirus include suddenly feeling sick, projectile vomiting, watery diarrhoea, slight fever, headaches, painful stomach cramps and aching limbs.
For Covid-19, people should look out for a continuous cough, high temperature, change in their normal sense of taste or smell, shortness of breath and unexplained tiredness.
Director McColgan added: “To help protect yourself, your loved ones and our services, we are asking members of the public not to visit Royal Alexandra Hospital if they are displaying symptoms of Covid-19 or norovirus. We are also asking anyone who does attend the site to follow infection control guidance, such as washing your hands regularly and wearing a mask, during your time at the hospital.”
Those who plan to visit the hospital are being told that they should only do so if they are not displaying any symptoms and all visitors must wear a mask, if eligible, during their time at the hospital.
In addition, NHSGGC is urging people to only attend A&Es across its sites if their condition is very urgent or life-threatening.
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