HUNDREDS of sick patients could be lonely this Christmas after East Surrey Hospital banned all visitors in a bid to contain a norovirus outbreak.
Managers at the hospital in Redhill took the drastic decision this week as the winter vomiting bug continued to spread.
It is believed to be the first time all visiting has been stopped and it is hoped that, by containing the virus now, the hospital will be able to readmit visitors in time for Christmas Day.
Surrey and Sussex Healthcare Trust chief executive Michael Wilson said: "Norovirus is widespread in the community at the moment and we have several wards affected in the hospital.
"To stop the bug spreading, we've had to stop visiting altogether.
"We don't take this decision lightly – we know it causes upset for the family and friends, and the patients themselves who look forward to seeing their loved ones, but unfortunately we have to stop visiting for the time being in order to protect our patients.
"Our patients have been informed that visitors have been told to stay away."
The vomiting and diarrhoea bug has caused a crisis at the hospital in recent months.
Last month, one third of wards were shut off at the Earlswood complex, with one spokesman stating the virus was causing "sheer panic".
Cases of norovirus have almost doubled in hospitals across the country compared to last year, and according to a spokesman it is thought to be a more contagious variety of the disease than has been seen in the past.
The virus is spread through touch and doctors and health experts have advised everyone to wash their hands and keep areas clean in an effort to stop it from spreading further.
Mr Wilson said the decision to stop visitors was being reviewed on a day-to-day basis. In preparation for the ban remaining in place for Christmas, phones will be available on every ward to allow people to talk to their loved ones.
Some visiting may be permitted in exceptional circumstances and visitors are advised to contact ward managers in advance.
Patients with minor injuries are also being urged not to use the emergency department at the hospital as this can put added strain and pressure on staff as they battle to deal with norovirus.
Those with minor injuries are advised to attend one of the minor injury units at Caterham, Horsham and Crawley.
