Glasgow Hilton outbreak confirmed as norovirus

Tests have confirmed that the recent outbreak of diarrhoea and vomiting at the five-star, 319-bedroom Hilton Hotel in Glasgow is norovirus.

A total of 63 guests and 20 members of staff have experienced symptoms since the onset of the outbreak on Wednesday 14 July. Two guests were admitted to hospital, but have since been discharged.

Dr Anne Scoular, public health consultant for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and chair of the Outbreak Control Team, said: "Laboratory tests have now confirmed that this is a norovirus outbreak.

"We will continue to monitor the situation very closely, but are seeing the number of cases decrease rapidly, which is the norm with an outbreak of this type.

"Our advice to guests and staff in the hotel is to continue to follow strict hygiene rules including regular hand washing. Anyone who has either stayed or worked at the hotel or used its facilities and is experiencing either diarrhoea and/or vomiting and a fever, should to contact NHS24 on 0845 424 2424.

"A management plan has been implemented within the hotel to allow it to operate and once again I would like to thank staff at the Hilton for their excellent help and cooperation with us.

A spokesman for Hilton Worldwide said that the hotel was following its own strict health and safety procedures. "We are working closely with the local health and environmental officials, and are providing all possible assistance to the hotel's guests and team members."

The norovirus infection is a common viral illness present throughout the community which can spread rapidly in areas with a high concentration of people - such as hotels, cruise ships, hospitals and schools."

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By Janet Harmer

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