New ward could be built at QEH which could help with pandemic flu or winter vomiting cases

A NEW ward could be built at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kings Lynn to prepare for outbreaks of winter vomiting bug or pandemic flu.

The QEH is hoping to create an extra 27 beds as part of a multi-million pound project to extend the hospital.

A hospital spokesman said the new beds could be used as an "escalation" ward and would allow the hospital to cope with any winter pressures or unexpected outbreaks such as pandemic flu or norovirus.

"The plans reflect our strategy to be prepared for any unexpected or critical health situation and to provide the highest standard of care to our patients in clean, safe and fully equipped surroundings", said QEH director of performance, Barbara Cummings.

The hospital has been severely hit by the norovirus outbreaks in the past resulting in wards being closed to both visitors and new admissions.

West Norfolk council has set a January target to make a decision on the application.

As well as helping the hospital to cope with unexpected outbreaks, the new ward would also be used as "decant" space to help with refurbishment programs such as the provision of single-sex wards.

"The current project to eliminate mixed sex accommodation throughout the hospital is a good example of why extra bed space is required and how it will be utilised", said the spokesman.

Although no figure has been calculated for the cost of the project, is it likely to run into several million pounds.