A fresh outbreak of the winter vomiting virus has been confirmed in Co Tipperary.
The South Eastern Health Board today reiterated its appeal to the public not to visit St Joseph’s Hospital in Clonmel, as suspected cases of the virus were confirmed at the weekend.
There are currently 12 patients with reported symptoms of the virus at the hospital. Twelve members of staff are also off work with similar symptoms. This brings the total number of those affected to 17 patients and 20 members of staff.
The South Eastern Health Board said: "Visitors will only be allowed into the hospital in exceptional circumstances."
The hospital has been closed to non-emergency admissions. All elective admissions have now been postponed until further notice, and patients will be notified individually.
Meanwhile, St. Bridget’s Hospital in Carrick-On-Suir has also been closed to admissions due to suspected cases of the virus.
The health board said: "Visitor restrictions have been introduced and full infection control measures have been implemented in a bid to curtail the spread of the virus."