A medical ward at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness has re-opened after an outbreak of a virus – but a restriction on visitor numbers across all wards has been reiterated.
Ward 2A, which was shut on December 29 after four patients were tested positive for Clostridium difficile, reopened yesterday evening.
NHS Highland’s infection control manager Catherine Stokoe praised staff across the hospital, and Ward 2A in particular, for their hard work during the ward closure.
She said: “Our nursing and domestic staff have worked incredibly hard during this time in not only looking after patients but also getting the ward deep cleaned and ready for reopening.
“We would also like to thank members of the pubic for their support during the closure of the ward.”
Despite the ward being reopened, NHS bosses have placed a restriction throughout the hospital limiting visiting to two people per patient at any one time.
Parents are also advised not to bring children under the age of 16.
Dr Adam Brown, consultant microbiologist for NHS Highland, said: “We would also advise that, given the high risk of flu, pregnant women should avoid visiting as well. If you have any respiratory symptoms we would ask that you do not visit any of our hospitals.
“We appreciate that at this time of year many people want to spend time with loved ones and this includes those who are in hospital but we are taking these measures for the safety of our patients and would ask for everyone’s understanding and cooperation at this time.”
Patients in hospital can also keep in touch with loved ones via phone as the Hospedia system by patient beds can dial free to 01, 02 and 03 numbers.
Management at the hospital is monitoring the situation over the weekend and reassess the restriction on Monday.
