Visiting Suspended on Ward 6 at Furness General Hospital
Visiting has been suspended on Ward 6 at Furness General Hospital following an outbreak of rotavirus.
The outbreak is affecting both patients and staff at the Barrow hospital. University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust has introduced the restriction to help control the spread of infection.
Relatives and carers of people receiving treatment on Ward 6 are being contacted directly by the hospital team.
Why Has Visiting Been Suspended?
The temporary restriction follows confirmed cases of rotavirus among patients and members of staff.
Rotavirus is a highly infectious virus that causes gastroenteritis. Common symptoms include watery diarrhoea, vomiting, a fever and stomach cramps.
The infection can affect people of any age. However, it can pose a greater risk to young children and people who may become dehydrated more easily.
Restricting visitors reduces the number of people entering and leaving the ward. This can help protect patients, hospital staff and members of the wider community.
How Long Will the Restriction Remain?
The hospital has not confirmed when normal visiting will resume on Ward 6.
Restrictions introduced during an outbreak normally remain in place while infection levels are monitored. The ward may also require additional cleaning before visits can safely restart.
Further updates are expected through the hospital trust’s official communication channels.
Families should not travel to Ward 6 without first checking the latest advice. Those with questions about a patient can contact Furness General Hospital on 01229 870870.
Relatives Being Contacted
Ward staff are contacting the relatives and carers of affected patients. They will explain the restriction and provide any information relevant to their family member.
Anyone who believes they should have received an update should contact the hospital. Calls can be directed through the main switchboard to Ward 6.
People should also speak directly to hospital staff about any exceptional circumstances. The arrangements may depend on the patient’s individual care needs and current infection-control guidance.
The restriction only applies to Ward 6. No wider suspension of visiting across Furness General Hospital has been announced.
What Is Rotavirus?
Rotavirus spreads very easily and can pass between people through contaminated hands, objects and surfaces.
Symptoms often include diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain and a high temperature. According to government health guidance, symptoms usually continue for three to eight days.
The main health risk is dehydration caused by losing fluids. Older people, young children and those with existing health conditions may be more vulnerable.
People with sickness or diarrhoea should stay away from hospitals unless they need urgent medical care. NHS advice says people should remain away from work or school until at least 48 hours after their symptoms stop.
Regular handwashing with soap and water can also reduce the risk of infection spreading.
Hospital Thanks Families for Their Support
The temporary restriction may be difficult for patients and their families. However, it has been introduced to protect people on the ward and prevent further cases.
Visitors should check for a new hospital update before making plans. Normal access will resume when the trust believes it is safe to lift the restriction.
