An elderly person has died after an outbreak of winter vomiting at a hospital, health chiefs have confirmed.

The vomiting and diarrhoea illness has affected 29 patients at Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride and four patients have been continuing to give cause for concern.

Lanarkshire NHS Board also confirmed that 36 members of staff have fallen ill since the first case emerged on 23 October.

A statement from the board said an elderly patient, who had been giving cause for concern, died in the early hours of this morning.

Within large institutions such as hospitals the virus may spread quickly

Dr John Logan

No further details about the individual were being released.

In the past 24 hours, eight patients and four members of staff have developed symptoms of the virus, which include diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

Three wards have been closed.

The staff are recovering but have been asked not to return to work until they have been free of the virus for 48 hours.

Dr John Logan, public health consultant at Lanarkshire NHS Board, said the outbreak control team met on Friday morning to review the situation.

Winter vomiting

He said: "Infection control measures continue to be emphasised to all staff caring for patients.

"This vomiting and diarrhoea infection is sometimes known as the winter vomiting virus and is currently present within the general Lanarkshire community and in other parts of Scotland.

"Similar outbreaks have affected several other hospitals in Scotland and the rest of the UK in recent months.

"Within large institutions such as hospitals the virus may spread quickly."

Fluid intake

Commenting on preventative measures, Dr Logan added: "As this infection is present in the community people are advised to pay attention to their personal hygiene, and that of their children.

"In particular, I would emphasise the importance of handwashing."

He confirmed the team will hold further meetings over the weekend.

The virus generally lasts for between 24 and 48 hours and there is no treatment beyond ensuring adequate fluid intake.