Norovirus outbreak in Christchurch

The Norovirus genome under a microscope.

An outbreak of norovirus is continuing to put pressure on hospital services in Christchurch.

Four wards at Princess Margaret Hospital are closed to new admissions, along with another two at Christchurch Hospital and one more at Burwood Hospital.

Canterbury District Health Board says it has the virus contained, but needs people to stay away from the Emergency Department unless they have a genuine emergency.

Communications Manager Michele Hider says there is a lot of norovirus in the community at the moment.

It is a severe form of gastroenteritis, the symptoms of which include stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting.

Ms Hider says shutting wards off to deal with the cases they have means less space or even no space for new patients.

She says people should seek treatment from a GP or an after hours clinic if they have a stomach bug

- NEWSTALK ZB

Norovirus fact sheet from the NZ Food Safety Authority website