A further two wards have been closed at Lister Hospital after yesterday’s suspected outbreak of norovirus.

The East and North Herts NHS Trust confirmed three wards are now closed out of 21 at the Stevenage site as staff try to contain any further spread of the infection which causes vomiting and diarrhoea.

A spokesman reiterated that those thinking of visiting relatives and loved ones should not do so if they have these symptoms until at least three days after they have cleared up.

“Actions have been taken to ensure that the hospital overall remains open and treating patients. Levels of norovirus in the community remain high and this continues to pose a risk - which is why the first message is so important to get out.”