The gastro outbreak at the Royal Hobart Hospital has grown since it was first reported on Wednesday, but the Department of Health is refusing to say how many staff have fallen ill.
Pulse understands there are now approximately 30 cases.
The department would not confirm the figure.
“A small number of Royal Hobart Hospital staff have been impacted by gastroenteritis-like symptoms in recent days,” a Department of Health spokesperson told Pulse tonight.
“The safety of all patients and staff remains our priority.”
The department said measures were in place to control the outbreak.
They include standard infection control steps, extra cleaning and the use of personal protective equipment.
Staff with any symptoms have been told to leave work straight away.
They are not allowed back until 48 hours after their symptoms clear.
“Where staff have been required to leave the workplace, alternative staffing arrangements have been put in place to ensure continuity of care for patients,” the spokesperson said.
The department said the illness had not affected people attending the Emergency Department.
Visitors who are unwell have been asked to stay away.
“We encourage all visitors who have gastroenteritis-like symptoms to not visit patients at the hospital,” the spokesperson said.
Symptoms of gastro include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea.
