An outbreak of the winter vomiting virus at Kings Lynn's Queen Elizabeth Hospital is now affecting 44 patients and 19 staff.

An outbreak of the winter vomiting virus at Kings Lynn's Queen Elizabeth Hospital is now affecting 44 patients and 19 staff.

The outbreak, which was discovered on Tuesday, initially affected 38 patients and six staff. Three wards were closed to new admissions from Tuesday and remain closed.

They are Necton, Oxborough and West Raynham.

A hospital spokesman said: “Visitors to the wards are being asked to co-operate with strict hygiene procedures, to help prevent this particularly nasty bug from spreading.

“There is a hand 'rub' to use on entering the ward area.

“Once on the ward visitors are being asked to use hand-washing facilities - then repeat the procedure in reverse when they leave.

“We apologise for the inconvenience this is causing but feel sure that visitors will understand why it is necessary for everyone's benefit.”

Norovirus is highly contagious and the most common cause of stomach bugs in England and Wales.

Sufferers are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill to at least three days, and in some cases up to two weeks, after recovery.