13 wards at Hairmyres are closed to new admissions

NHS Lanarkshire confirmed it was investigating cases of vomiting and diarrhoea among 102 people at Hairmyres Hospital, in East Kilbride.

The symptoms suggest it is the Norovirus infection.

The health board said control measures had been put in place to avoid the spread of the illness.

Patients on the wards affected - which include medical and care of the elderly wards - have been receiving treatment.

GP referrals for medical and surgical reasons are being sent to ther hospitals while the Accident and Emergency section is still open.

Hairmyres has received support from other hospitals in Lanarkshire which have been taking medical referrals from GPs on its behalf.

'Hand washing'

NHS Lanarkshire public health consultant Eleanor Anderson said: "We have put in place a comprehensive package of infection control measures to manage the risk of the infection within the hospital.

"Winter vomiting virus causes sickness, fever and diarrhoea. It usually lasts for 24 to 48 hours but it is infectious for two days after the symptoms stop."

Ms Anderson said the whole community had a role to play in counteracting infection.

She said: "Therefore it is important that people maintain good hygiene, especially regular hand washing before eating and after using the toilet, particularly if visiting patients in hospital.