Gastroenteritis outbreak in Bermuda

CMC - An outbreak of gastroenteritis has struck almost 30 patients and staff at the King Edward VIII Memorial Hospital in Bermuda.

This has resulted in the quarantine of one of the wards at the institution.

A spokesperson from the Bermuda Hospital Board said access to Gordon Ward is likely to be restricted through Friday.

Five staff members also show signs of the stomach bug, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

According to the Hospital, on Wednesday 15 patients fell ill but so far seven have recovered. The bug also hit 14 employees.

The spokeswoman said gastroenteritis can be caused by many different organisms, but samples to date have tested negative for many of the common causes.

Sick patients  have been placed in isolation and visitors and staff must wear protective clothing on entering the hospital.

Visits, new admissions and transfers are also being restricted at the Gordon Ward.

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