A ward at the Royal Hospital for Children remains closed to new admissions following the positive testing of five cases of rotavirus.
While investigating the rotavirus cases routine testing has identified a separate virus which has the same type of symptoms. Both viruses are extremely common among infants and young children, particularly if their immune system is compromised.
Four patients remain positive for this separate virus known as Astrovirus.
Dr Teresa Inkster, Consultant Microbiologist, said: “Enhanced infection control precautions are in place and we are continuing to monitor the situation closely.
“I would also urge visitors to remember the importance of hand hygiene when entering and leaving the hospital.”
Rotavirus is the most common cause of diarrhoeal disease among infants and young children. However, older children and adults also can get sick from rotavirus. Once a person has been exposed to rotavirus, it can take up to two days for the symptoms to appear.
Children who get infected may have severe diarrhoea, often with vomiting, fever, loss of appetite and abdominal pain. Vomiting and diarrhoea can last from three to eight days.
Astrovirusis a common cause of diarrhoea and vomiting in young children and elderly people who are immuno-compromised.
It is not usually a severe virus and only in some rare cases leads to dehydration.