THE winter sickness bug has hit Warrington and Halton Hospitals, warn health chiefs.

Residents who are unwell are being advised not to visit sick patients.

The Norovirus, the most common cause of infectious gastroenteritis, can affect people of any age and is very contagious.

David Melia, director of nursing at the hospitals, said: “In Winter, stomach bugs like Norovirus are very difficult to control because they spread so quickly and easily from person to person and are very common out in the community.

“ Staff have been asked to be extra vigilant and ensure they properly wash their hands between patients and we are now asking visitors to help us too.

“What we would like people to think about is whether they or anyone close to them such as family, friends or colleagues has had diarrhoea, vomiting or fever within the last 72 hours.

“If this is the case then they should avoid visiting the hospital and use alternative methods of contact to speak to the patient such as the hospital’s bedside telephone system. If they really feel they can’t postpone their visit they should contact the ward for advice prior to coming to the hospital.”