Critical Incident Stood Down By Surrey And Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust After Norovirus Outbreak

A critical incident declared after a norovirus outbreak at East Surrey Hospital has now been stood down, health officials have confirmed.

Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust introduced the measures earlier this week following a surge in cases of the winter vomiting bug at the Redhill site.

Although the incident has now been lifted, the trust says the hospital remains extremely busy, with a high number of norovirus cases across the site.

Temporary visiting restrictions are still in place on most wards, with exceptions for end-of-life care and maternity patients, while additional infection control measures continue to help limit the spread of the virus.

Dr Ed Cetti, Chief Medical Officer at the trust, thanked staff and the public for their support during the outbreak, but warned there is still significant pressure on services, particularly in the emergency department.

People are being urged to consider alternative services where possible, including pharmacies, GP practices, walk-in centres and NHS 111.

Anyone who has experienced symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea within the past 48 hours is being asked not to attend the hospital.

Patients are advised to continue attending scheduled appointments unless told otherwise.