The Stockport NHS Foundation Trust suspended almost all patient visiting at Stepping Hill Hospital and its community sites on February 18, 2026, following an outbreak of norovirus. The restrictions affect hospital wards as well as community health services across Stockport, the High Peak, and Tameside.
Hospital leaders took the action to protect vulnerable patients and staff as the winter vomiting bug spread through clinical areas. Exceptions are being made for people visiting patients at the end of their life or those with dementia, learning disabilities, and neurodiverse conditions.
Families who believe they meet these exceptions are asked to call ward staff to discuss their visit before arriving. The Stockport NHS Foundation Trust is reviewing the visiting restrictions on February 20, 2026, to determine when it is safe to allow visitors to return.
The local outbreak occurs as health officials monitor a significant rise in norovirus cases across the country this winter. Dr Manisha Kumar, Chief Medical Officer of NHS Greater Manchester, noted that the increase in the virus is adding further pressure to hospital and community services during a busy season.
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