A suspected outbreak of norovirus has resulted in closure of a St Andrews care home to admissions.
Several residents at Balnacarron Care Home have fallen ill with what could be the winter vomiting bug.
NHS Fife warned that the infection can be easily spread and advised those affected to stay at home and wash their hands regularly.
A spokesperson said: “We are currently assisting with a suspected outbreak of norovirus at a care home in north-east Fife.
“The care home in question has been closed to admissions.
“Norovirus is very easily spread from one person to another.
“Outbreaks of norovirus where more than two people are affected occur in places where people are in close contact with one another for long periods of time, such as families, hospitals, care homes and schools.”
Relatives have been advised not to visit residents at the Hepburn Gardens for the next few days to avoid spreading further infection.
Care home operator Bupa said: “We’re caring for a small number of residents who are unwell with a bug and most are making a fast recovery.
“We’re working with NHS Fife and taking all precautions to ensure it doesn’t affect other residents in the home.
“The health and wellbeing of our residents is our top priority”
According to Bupa, the local doctor has visited the home but could not confirm what caused the illness.
Tests are being carried out with the local Public Health team.
The residents that are still unwell aren’t in a serious condition but as a precaution relatives have been asked not to visit.
Symptoms of norovirus are suddenly feeling sick, projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
It can also cause fever, headaches, painful stomach cramps and aching limbs.
Those who contract the virus are advised to wash hands regularly and stay off work or school for 48 hours after symptoms have passed.
