Ward closures at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli
13 January 2026
In response to incidences of norovirus, from today, 13 January 2026, Hywel Dda University Health Board has temporarily closed wards at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli and is asking visitors not to attend the site until further notice.
The decision to temporarily close the wards to all but essential visitors has been taken due to cases of norovirus circulating in wards at Prince Philip Hospital and in the community. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhoea.
While four wards are currently closed, the restrictions apply to the whole of the hospital.
Some essential visiting will be allowed in exceptional circumstances. Visitors are being asked to contact the wards or hospital switchboard for further guidance.
The restrictions will be in place until further notice, and the situation will be monitored on a regular basis.
Sharon Daniel, Director of Nursing, Quality, and Patient Experience at Hywel Dda UHB said:
“We have taken the decision to restrict all but essential visiting to Prince Philip hospital in order to keep patients and staff safe and to halt the spread of norovirus, which is currently circulating in our local community.
“I know this will be difficult for those who have loved ones in hospital and we will re-open the wards as soon as it is safe to do so. Please keep an eye on our website or social media for further updates.”
All other Hywel Dda hospital sites are operating as normal, but visitors are being asked not to visit friends and relatives if they have symptoms of flu, sickness or diarrhoea and to wear masks when attending all clinical sites.
Sharon Daniel continued: “I would like to remind visitors that you should only come to our sites if you are feeling well. This helps us limit the spread of viruses and protect our most vulnerable patients. It also helps us to keep staff well, so that they can look after those in greatest need of our care.
Help us to help you
Sharon said: “There are several ways people can support our NHS during this time. Please follow the mask wearing guidance. Also, please ensure that you wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water.
“This closure is due to norovirus but an effective way to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe and well this winter is to have a flu vaccination. More information on where you can have your vaccine, including RSV and COVID-19 boosters if you are eligible, is on our website.
“Thank you to our communities, our patients, and our staff for all your support in looking after one another.”
For more information on where to access a vaccine in your community, please visit the Health Board’s website at: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/immunisation-and-vaccination/seasonal-flu-vaccinations/ or, please call 0300 303 8322 and choose option 1 or email ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk.