A medical ward at Noble's Hospital has been closed to new admissions after the antibiotic-resistant bug MRSA was found.

Health authorities say a small number of patients are carrying MRSA rather than being infected by it, and are showing no signs or symptoms of associated illness or infection. The closure will be monitored and assessed daily.

A spokesman said: 'The patients on the affected ward and their relatives have been informed and assured that all the necessary precautions have been put in place. Scrupulous hand hygiene by all staff and visitors and a high level of environmental cleanliness are essential measures for containing the bug.'

Got a story? Contact Joanne on 340000 or email newsdesk@manx.net

twitter @jonewsiom