BOSSES at a North-East hospital trust are urging patients not to go to accident and emergency if they suspect they may be suffering with symptoms of the winter vomiting bug.

Norovirus is an extremely infectious stomach bug. It can strike all year round, but is more common in winter and in places such as hospitals and schools. The illness is unpleasant but it's usually over within a couple of days.

The advice was issued because patients with norovirus symptoms have been going in to the A&E department at the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton.

Sue Smith, director of nursing at NHS North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, said: "This virus is extremely contagious but can safely be treated at home with plenty of fluids and rest.

"We are asking people not to go to accident and emergency if they have symptoms as this could cause the virus to spread throughout the hospital and affect patients who are already frail and vulnerable and who could become very ill if affected.

"If you are concerned about young children, the elderly or infirm, please contact your GP or visit your local walk in centre.

"Please don't visit relatives in hospital if you are unwell or are experiencing any symptoms of diarrhoea or vomiting until you have been free of the symptoms for 48 hours.

"If you are visiting make sure you limit visitors to two to each patient, do not sit on the bed and make sure you follow hygiene procedures by washing your hands at the basins provided before and after the visit."

There are currently cases of norovirus at NHS hospitals in Stockton, Darlington and Durham City.