Midlands hotel closes due to outbreak of Norovirus

The Glasson Lakehouse hotel in Westmeath has temporarily closed this week due to an outbreak of Norovirus.

A spokesperson for the hotel told the Offaly Independent it had implemented the voluntary closure on Wednesday afternoon following cases of illness on site which were subsequently confirmed as Norovirus.

The hotel's spokesperson said it has been working closely with the HSE on the management of the situation.

A statement which was issued to this newspaper on behalf of the hotel this afternoon (Thursday) said: "It is with regret that we have decided to temporarily close our premises as a precautionary measure following an outbreak of Norovirus.

"We notified the HSE when we became aware that some recent guests and team members exhibited symptoms.

"In consultation with the HSE, we implemented a voluntary closure and are working closely with the HSE to carry out all appropriate control measures, which we have acted on immediately."

At the time of writing, no reservations are being accepted at the four-star lakefront hotel for the coming days.

The statement from the Glasson Lakehouse said it "deeply regrets" the impact the illness outbreak has had on guests, and thanked them for their patience and support.

"We are doing everything we can to look after everyone affected and are seeking alternative venues for guests and events to minimise the inconvenience caused," the hotel's statement said.

"We will continue to work closely with health authorities and will provide an update regarding our reopening as soon as possible."

The HSE was also contacted for comment. A response which it issued this afternoon (Thursday) said: "Since Monday, August 24, the Department of Public Health – HSE Dublin and Midlands team has been investigating an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness affecting people who attended a premises in Westmeath.

"The public health team is working closely with HSE National Environmental Health Service colleagues and the premises to ensure all appropriate actions are being taken, and is working to contact affected people with advice," the HSE said.

"Management and staff at the premises are cooperating fully with public health advice. The premises has voluntarily closed to facilitate outbreak control measures."

Norovirus is a stomach bug which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea and is known for spreading easily in indoor spaces such as hospitals, nursing homes and schools.