Victoria LeggettThe winter vomiting bug has forced a community hospital in north Norfolk to close one of its wards.The highly infectious norovirus means the in-patient ward at North Walsham Cottage Hospital has been temporarily closed to routine admissions and visitors as the NHS attempts to combat the spread.Victoria Leggett

The winter vomiting bug has forced a community hospital in north Norfolk to close one of its wards.

The highly infectious norovirus means the in-patient ward at North Walsham Cottage Hospital has been temporarily closed to routine admissions and visitors as the NHS attempts to combat the spread.

The same restrictions were recently brought in at wards in Dereham and Norwich.

No new patients will be admitted and existing patients will not be discharged to other health or care facilities until they have been free of symptoms for 72 hours. Visitors will also not be allowed on the wards until the virus is under control.

The restrictions will be reviewed on Monday February 1.

Lead infection control nurse Beth Kimber said good hygiene was the key to stop the bug spreading.

She said: 'People should make hand washing part of the routine of every visit to hospital or a care home, every time, all year round.'

For more information on the restrictions, call the wards directly or contact the patient liaison advice service on 0800 587 4132.