Strict measures have been introduced at Southport (all wards) and Ormskirk Hospital (G Ward only) to stop the spread of Norovirus.
To help reduce the risk of infection spreading further, a period of restricted visiting has been introduced with immediate effect (Friday 9th May 2025).
Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in healthcare settings, putting vulnerable patients and healthcare workers at risk. Symptoms include sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, often accompanied by a mild temperature or body aches.
We are asking that if you are feeling unwell or experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea you do not attend the hospital unless it is a medical emergency. If you need urgent medical advice, please contact NHS 111 online or call NHS 111.
If you are experiencing symptoms and are due to attend an outpatient appointment, please phone the department ahead for advice and guidance before attending the hospital.
In addition, people are asked not to visit the hospital if they have had any of these symptoms in the past 48 hours. This includes the Emergency Department or any outpatient appointments.
Visitors to our sites should:
Wash your hands with soap and water regularly when entering and exiting the ward and hospital
Not come into the hospital if you have symptoms of Norovirus including diarrhoea, vomiting or a high temperature. If you have had symptoms, please wait 48 hours after these have stopped before visiting.
Visiting an adult inpatient
We are limiting visiting to one designated friend or family member per patient.
These restrictions will not apply under compassionate grounds for patients who are end-of-life or require additional support. This should be discussed with the Ward Manager.
If you are unsure whether it is appropriate for you to visit, please contact the ward team who will be able to confirm.
Attending appointments
When attending an appointment, we ask that, if possible, you attend alone.
Emergency Department
If you attend our Emergency Department, we ask that you limit the number of people accompanying you to one person, where possible. We understand this is not always possible, so please speak with the person-in-charge if you have any questions.
Lynne Barnes , Acting Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Governance said: “We are continuing to see high numbers of norovirus cases in our hospital setting and people are continuing to visit the hospital with norovirus symptoms. Whilst we recognise how important visitors are to the overall wellbeing of our patients, we must stop the spread of this virus in our hospitals to protect our vulnerable patients and staff.”
People can help stop the spread of infection by following these simple steps:
Avoid visiting loved ones unless necessary. Contact the ward for advice if needed.
Maternity and Paediatric Wards at Ormskirk Hospital:
There are currently no restrictions to visiting on the maternity and paediatric wards.
Please note visiting can be restricted or suspended with immediate effect if there are any safety concerns due to spread of infection on our wards or in our communities.
Please avoid visiting the hospital if you are experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting, or if you have had these symptoms within the past 48 hours. You can visit the NHS website for more information about Norovirus, symptoms and advice.