Norovirus victims to remain in isolation

Victims of an outbreak of a highly infectious tummy bug at two Christchurch hospitals are likely to spend the weekend in isolation.

An isolation ward has been set up at Christchurch Hospital in an attempt to stop the spread of the highly infectious norovirus, which has so far affected 20 patients and 12 staff at Christchurch Hospital, and also a number of people at Princess Margaret Hospital.

The chief medical officer of health told National Radio that patients were likely to remain in the isolation ward until Monday.

Norovirus causes vomiting and diarrhoea, which typically last for about 48 hours.

The virus is spread mainly through direct contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces and objects contaminated with the virus.

- NZPA