We have been notified by Waltham Forest CCG of high levels of norovirus in the Waltham Forest local community, we have therefore been asked to remind all BHR GP practices to help limit the spread of norovirus.
We are extremely grateful for everything you are already doing to care for local people and ensure the right infection control processes are followed.
Norovirus can spread very easily and unfortunately we are already seeing the results at Whipps Cross Hospital, with four wards currently closed. With this in mind, please can we ask that you do all you can to avoid sending patients with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting to hospital unless absolutely necessary.
We would also urge you to ensure that colleagues, patients and relatives are paying extra attention to hand hygiene at this time to help limit the spread. Washing hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water is by far the most effective method as alcohol gels do not kill the virus.
The same communications are being reiterated to all staff within the hospital, so any support you can offer would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks for your continued support.
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