THREE wards at Whipps Cross University Hospital have been closed to new admissions after an outbreak of the winter vomiting virus.

Only two members of immediate family at one time are currently being alllowed to visit patients in an attempt to stop the norovirus bug speading.

Children are only allowed onto wards with the permission of the ward manager.

People suffering from the highly contagious illness, which causes projectile vomiting and diarrhoea, are urged to call NHS direct or GP practices, rather than attend A&E.

The hospital is currently experiencing a high demand for beds due to norovirus, flu and other winter illnesses associated with the winter months.