NHS Highland has appealed to members of the public to assist in reducing the spread of common viruses as winter approaches.
The health authority is seeking help to reduce the spread of colds, flu, diarrhoea and vomiting.
Colder days and dark nights traditionally to lead to people spending time inside in close proximity – the perfect breeding ground for viruses to spread.
Catherine Stokoe, head of infection control, said: “Staff across NHS Highland are working very hard to reduce the risk of these spreading across our hospitals and are looking for support from the public to help with this.
“We appreciate that when a loved one is in hospital you want to come in and see them but we are asking that if you, or anyone you live with, has symptoms of diarrhoea, vomiting, cold or flu please do not visit a hospital or care home setting until you are symptom-free.”
The warning comes after NHS Highland was forced to close its stroke unit to new admissions after cases of diarrhoea and vomiting were found, with some flu cases also highlighted.
Members of the public are encouraged to wash their hands using soap and hot water.
They are also encouraged to cover their mouths or use a tissue if coughing or sneezing and to ensure it is disposed of appropriately.
