A HAMPSHIRE hospital appears to be winning the fight against a diarrhoea and vomiting bug that has struck scores of patients and staff.

The norovirus is currently affecting five patients on four wards at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester.

The virus reached its peak when four wards were shut and 33 patients were struck down just before Christmas.

All wards have now re-opened.

A spokesman said although the outbreak was nearly beaten it was important that the risk be reduced of new bugs coming in with visitors.

She said: “We are deep cleaning the hospital and some areas are now being cleaned twice a day.

“But we still want people to stay away when possible as it looks like we are containing the virus. We are still very cautious as it is still very active in the community.”