One of four wards closed at Raigmore Hospital due to a norovirus outbreak has reopened.
Ward 2C is open following a deep clean.
However three more wards – 7C, 5C and 3A – remain closed to new admissions and visitors are being asked to stay away.
Consultant microbiologist Dr Adam Brown has urged visitors to be vigilant because norovirus is “still rife in the community.”
He said: “I am pleased we have been able to reopen Ward 2C but would like to remind everyone that norovirus is still very much active in the community. If you, or anyone you live with, have had symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting please refrain from coming into the hospital until you are clear for 48 hours.
“By restricting visiting to the affected areas 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.
“Visiting to unaffected wards remains open but we would ask that are limited to two per patient.”
NHS Highland official advice
Do not visit a hospital if you or someone you live with has symptoms. If you have a hospital appointment, please get in touch and, where appropriate, your appointment can be rescheduled.
Wait until you have been clear of symptoms for 48 hours, as you may still be contagious, even if you feel well.
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
If you visit someone in hospital, don’t sit on their bed and keep the number of visitors to a minimum at any one time. Never touch dressings, drips, or other equipment around the bed.