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Future of South London Healthcare NHS Trust

The Secretary of State for Health has now made his decision on the final report by the Trust Special Administrator. The decision is that the Trust will be dissolved by 1 October 2013 and its services managed by new organisations.

Patients should note that all services are running as normal in all of South London Healthcare's hospitals and there will be a carefully managed process so that there is no service disruption during the transition period.

Secretary of State's decision in full

Help Stop the Spread of Norovirus

Norovirus, which causes diarrhoea and vomiting, is now circulating in the local community.

Norovirus is one of the most common causes of highly infectious sickness and diarrhoea (gastroenteritis). It can spread very quickly in schools, hospitals and care homes. Don't give Norovirus a chance.

We need to take action to reduce the risk of Norovirus infection within our hospitals.

Recognise It

Symptoms of a Norovirus infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in some cases, a fever, headache, stomach cramps and aching limbs. Symptoms can last for 12 to 60 hours, but most people recover within two days. There is no specific treatment but it is important that people with diarrhoea and vomiting drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Avoid It

The virus is easily spread from person to person therefore individuals should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with an affected person or environment.

• Do not rely on hand gel.
• Increase cleaning, especially toilets and touch points such as taps and door handles.
• Do not visit hospitals or your GP if you have symptoms. Call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or call your GP for advice.
• Avoid attending A&E if possible – unless symptoms are severe or there are complicating factors.
• Don't visit people in hospital or in care homes until you have been symptom free for at least 48 hours.
• Stay off work whilst unwell and for 48 hours after the symptoms have resolved.
• Parents should be advised to keep affected children away from school, nursery, playgroup or childminding services whilst they are unwell and for 48 hours after the child has recovered.
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Stop It

Stay at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms of Norovirus have stopped to reduce the risk of passing the virus to others.

Please see the NHS website for more information.