Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has implemented an immediate ban on all patient visitors at Stepping Hill Hospital following a significant outbreak of norovirus across multiple wards. The decision, announced on February 18, 2026, comes as the trust grapples with what it describes as a 'very high' number of cases of the contagious stomach bug, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug.
Immediate Restrictions and Limited Exceptions
The visitor suspension took effect immediately and will remain in place until at least February 20, when the situation will be reassessed. The trust has confirmed that only limited exceptions will be permitted during this period. These exceptions include patients receiving end-of-life care, individuals with dementia, and those with learning disabilities or neurodiverse conditions.
For these exceptional cases, visitors must contact ward staff in advance to arrange visits. The trust emphasized that these measures are being implemented to protect vulnerable patients from infection and to manage pressures on hospital services during the outbreak.
Hospital Statement and Safety Measures
In an official statement released online, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust explained: "We have recently been experiencing a very high number of cases of norovirus on our hospital wards. We usually offer open visiting for those who wish to spend time with their loved ones, and we recognise the important benefits this brings for patients, families and carers."
The statement continued: "However, because of the increasing risk from norovirus to our vulnerable patients, and pressures on our services, unfortunately we are having to put visiting restrictions in place. We are currently suspending all visiting to patients, with limited exceptions including those at the end of their life, with learning disabilities or dementia."
The trust has implemented enhanced safety protocols throughout the hospital, including increased cleaning in affected areas, heightened monitoring for symptoms, and additional laboratory testing to quickly identify infected patients. These measures aim to contain the spread of the virus while maintaining essential hospital operations.
Regional Context and Patient Impact
This development follows similar visitor restrictions implemented at Royal Bolton Hospital just days earlier, where family members were advised to avoid three specific wards dealing with infections. The consecutive outbreaks at hospitals in Greater Manchester highlight the seasonal challenges facing healthcare providers during winter months.
Norovirus causes vomiting and diarrhoea and spreads easily in confined environments like hospital wards. The trust acknowledged the disruption caused by the visitor ban, stating: "We'll be reviewing these measures on a regular basis and will lift any restrictions when it is safe to do so. Please be assured that these changes are being introduced with safety and wellbeing at the forefront."
Patients whose wellbeing might be adversely affected by the restrictions, particularly those with dementia or learning disabilities, may still receive visitors under the exceptional arrangements. The trust has asked families to work directly with ward staff to coordinate these visits while maintaining infection control protocols.
The hospital management expressed gratitude for public patience and support during the outbreak, promising regular updates as the situation evolves. They reaffirmed their commitment to restoring normal visiting arrangements as soon as safety permits, emphasizing that patient protection remains their highest priority during this challenging period.
