MUSGROVE Park Hospital in Taunton is asking people not to visit friends or relatives there except in the most extreme circumstances.

Medical Director Dr Cecil Blumgart said: "Like many hospitals and care homes across the region, we are struggling with the winter vomiting bug norovirus.

"Ten of our wards have restrictions on them. Although we have asked people to act responsibly when visiting, we know that some people have still attended even though they have had symptoms themselves, or been in contact with someone who has.

"To be blunt, members of the public are now bringing infection into the hospital.

"We appreciate that families like to visit their loved ones when they are in hospital and are aware of the benefits for patients, but it is currently more important to prevent patients catching this infection.

"We are asking the public to consider their responsibility to help us to do that."

Visitors are now only welcome if they are collecting a friend or family member who is being discharged. Anyone who feels that their visit is essential should ring the ward sister before leaving home.

Anyone who is worried about their own symptoms should call their GP or NHS Direct.