Wards remain closed after deaths at bug-hit Royal Alexandra Hospital

Eight wards remain closed at a hospital in Renfrewshire following the deaths of four patients who were being treated for a diarrhoea and vomiting bug.

A total of 24 patients are showing symptoms of Norovirus at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said the deaths, which had all taken place since Friday, were due to underlying medical conditions.

Norovirus was a contributory factor in one death.

The health board said strict infection control procedures remained in place.

It said that outwith the affected wards, the hospital continued to run as normal.

Outpatient appointments and planned hospital admissions are continuing as normal.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde consultant microbiologist Dr Teresa Inkster said: "Norovirus is a particularly prevalent virus common in the community and healthcare settings.

"Typically it has a sudden onset and can spread quickly, and therefore we would urge relatives and any visitors who have experienced any symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours not to visit the hospital.

"We would also ask that visitors are restricted to close family and friends whenever possible due to the current situation."