The ‘Behind the Headlines’ service from NHS Choices has produced a quality assessment of press reports that “wards have been closed over fears of norovirus outbreak” (reported by the Daily Telegraph and Daily Mail; December 18/19th 2011). 
 

The articles were based on a warning from health officials about the serious threat posed by norovirus, after wards had to be closed at eight UK hospitals.  Please see the link below for details. 

According to the Health Protection Agency overall laboratory reports suggest that the levels of norovirus are typical for this time of year. The Agency confirms that as part of infection control measures in hospitals, ward closures are implemented to prevent further transmission and reduce disruption to hospital services. Please see link below for further details including advice for the public when managing a bout of norovirus.