TWO wards at Weston General Hospital have now reopened after a Norovirus outbreak.

Uphill and Berrow have reopened to new patient admissions however Kewstoke remains closed due to Norovirus with restrictions in place.

Ashcombe maternity unit is also now fully operational from this morning (Wednesday) with all 12 beds available for expectant mothers.

Due to unprecedented demand on the hospital’s services, eight beds had recently been used to treat female ED patients at the midwife-led unit.

Weston General Hospital continues to experience a high level of demand which has been exacerbated by the prolonged closure of the three wards due to the outbreak.

Although the situation is improving the Trust still has additional beds open to help cope.

Hospital chiefs are still asking people to only attend ED if it is absolutely necessary and a medical emergency and are reminding the public that Accident & Emergency is for life threatening and serious injury illnesses only. 

The hospital advises people to seek treatment from their local pharmacy, NHS 111, local minor injuries units or to consult their GP.

Nick Wood, chief executive, added: “Our staff work incredibly hard throughout the year, however I am aware of many who have worked considerable additional hours during this period, I would like to thank all my teams for their continued hard work in providing safe and efficient care for patients during this difficult period.”

For further information visit www.waht.nhs.uk or follow the hospital on Twitter @WestonNHS