Raigmore Hospital has been hit by norovirus, forcing the closure of a ward.
Ward 2C is closed to new admissions and visitors are being asked to stay away while staff deal with several cases of diarrhoea and vomiting.
There are two confirmed cases on the ward, which closed today. There are also two additional confirmed cases on different wards.
The Infection Prevention and Control team are currently monitoring the situation and infection control measures are in place.
Dr Vanda Plecko, Consultant Microbiologist for NHS Highland, said: “It is disappointing that we have had to close the ward but we know there is significant norovirus in the community and we do believe that this is an infection that has been brought into the ward and has affected new patients.”
Dr Plecko explained that the minimal period of clearance required is 48 hours.
She said: “Again we would stress that people do not come to the hospital/s to visit if they have, or live with someone who has, had any vomiting or diarrhoea. We would especially ask that children stay away from the ward where possible.
“We would ask that anyone coming into the hospital needs to be clear for at least 48 hours. By doing this we will be able to limit the spread as much as possible.
“By restricting visiting to the affected area it helps hospital staff protect the health, privacy and dignity of our patients. Hospital staff will of course be very happy to talk to visitors on the phone so they can get updates on how their relatives are.”