Health chiefs in Fife are investigating an outbreak of norovirus at a Fife hotel, it has been revealed.
NHS Fife officials say they have been working closely with Fife Council’s environmental health team and Health Protection Scotland to investigate a number of cases which have come to light in recent days at Garvock House Hotel in Dunfermline.
The source of the norovirus, which is more commonly known as the winter vomiting bug in the UK, is as yet unknown, but NHS Fife has urged people to take necessary precautions to prevent the virus spreading further.
Dr Margaret Hannah, director of public health at NHS Fife, explained: “Norovirus is a stomach bug which causes sickness and diarrhoea.
“Although it is unpleasant, the virus usually lasts only for a couple of days and with no lasting effects.
“Fife continues to see a higher prevalence of norovirus circulating in the wider community than would be expected at this time of year, with the virus most likely brought into the hotel by members of the wider community attending one of its various functions over recent weeks.
“Good hand hygiene is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of norovirus.
“However, if you are unlucky enough to contract the virus then you can help to reduce further spread by remaining at home for 48 hours after your last episode of diarrhoea and vomiting.”
No-one was available at Garvock House Hotel for comment on the situation, but Dr Hannah noted: “The management of Garvock House Hotel have co-operated fully throughout and have taken all reasonable actions to prevent the onward spread of the virus.”
More information on norovirus and symptoms is available at www.nhsinform.co.uk.
