A number of cases of the winter vomiting bug Norovirus have been confirmed in the past few days on Sarratt and Croxley wards at Watford General Hospital.

A hospital spokesman said: “The safety of our patients is of paramount importance at all times and we are absolutely committed to doing everything we can to help stop the potential spread of infection across the hospital.

“Norovirus is highly contagious unless great care is taken to contain it. Therefore we are asking visitors to help us by not visiting these two affected wards unless it is essential for them to do so. Visitors who do need to attend should telephone the wards before arriving.

“We also urge anyone feeling unwell not to come into hospital to visit patients, and not to bring children. If anyone has suffered with sickness and/or diarrhoea, they should ensure they have been clear of any symptoms for 72 hours before they attend the hospital.”