Virus hits Wairau Hospital in Blenheim

Twenty-seven staff at Wairau Hospital in Blenheim have been hit by a gastrointestinal virus, forcing the closure of the medical ward and rehabilitation ward for new admissions.

Elective surgery is also being restricted .

The medical ward closed for acute admissions last week, when staff reported vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms, suspected to be caused by a norovirus.

The rehabilitation ward closed to new admissions this week as more staff and patients reported the illness.

Medical Officer of Health Maree Leonard said staff contact between the ward and other parts of the hospital was being limited, and only essential staff would work in both areas.

"This is one of a range of strict infection control measures which the hospital has put in place to limit the spread of the illness to other patients." She said it was hoped the medical unit would be open for acute admissions from today.