Two care homes hit by a diarrhoea and vomiting bug have been put on lock-down

Two care homes in Worcestershire have been put on lock-down after they were hit by a winter diarrhoea and vomiting bug.

The norovirus bug has forced two care homes and six Worcester hospital wards to close to new admissions.

One of the care homes is Springs Nursing and Residential Care Home run by Bupa Care Services.

Conor Whitelaw, regional manager for Bupa Care Services, said: 'We have robust plans in place to combat norovirus.'

'However, it exists in the local community and we cannot be isolated from it.'

'We are asking people not to visit as a precaution to ensure our residents’ welfare.'

Six wards at Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester have been closed or partially closed to new admissions.

Norovirus is extremely contagious. The first sign of norovirus is usually a sudden sick feeling followed by forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea.

The main risk from norovirus is dehydration from your body losing water and salts from vomiting and diarrhoea.

Good hygiene is essential to avoid spreading the infection.