NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has warned the public not to attend hospital if they have symptoms of Gastroenteritis, COVID-19 or flu.    

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis include projectile vomiting, slight fever and painful stomach cramps and aching limbs. 

While symptoms of COVID-19 include a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell, loss of appetite and shortness of breath and symptoms of flu can include a sudden fever, limb or joint pain and abdominal pain. 

In line with this, NHSGGC has also said that anyone planning to visit a loved one in hospital should not do so if they are displaying any of the symptoms outlined above.    

Dr Aleksandra Marek, consultant microbiologist and infection control doctor, said: “During the winter months, illnesses such as Gastroenteritis, COVID-19 and flu, can add to the pressures that staff face across our sites.   

“To help protect yourself, your loved ones and our services, we are asking members of the public not to visit our hospital sites if they are displaying symptoms of any of these viruses.    

“We are also asking anyone who does attend a site to follow infection control guidance, such as washing your hands regularly.   

“Our dedicated members of staff are working around the clock to continue to provide the highest standard of patient-centred care possible.”  

NHSGGC is urging people to only attend Emergency Departments (A&E) if their condition is very urgent or life-threatening.    

Any patient unsure of who to turn to, can visit the NHS Inform HERE or call NHS24 on 111