The Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has restricted visiting at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, following an outbreak of norovirus. This warning, issued on 28 February 2026, comes after the stomach bug was found in several wards across the hospital site. Hospital leaders hope the move will protect vulnerable patients and prevent the virus from spreading further.
Anyone who has experienced vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach cramps in the last 48 hours is being told strictly to stay away from the hospital. Because the virus is highly contagious, people are also being asked to avoid visiting if they feel generally unwell or have flu-like symptoms. These rules apply to all visitors to help keep the hospital running smoothly and protect staff.
Specific wards may have different rules depending on how badly they are affected by the bug. Residents are encouraged to call the hospital or speak with the nurse in charge of a ward before they set off from home. This will help families avoid unnecessary trips if a particular area has been closed to visitors.
Visitors who are allowed on site are being reminded that they must wash their hands with soap and water. Health officials have pointed out that alcohol hand gels do not kill this specific virus, so using soap is the only way to stay clean. People should wash their hands thoroughly both when they arrive at a ward and when they leave.
This local situation follows a report from the NHS about a major increase in cases across the country. Figures for February 2026 show that national infection levels are more than 22 per cent higher than the usual average for this time of year.
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