The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital has said one ward remains closed after cases of the sickness bug norovirus were confirmed.
The hospital is still urging anyone who has suffered from symptoms of the highly infectious Norovirus bug to stay away from the hospital until they have been free of the symptoms for at least 48 hours.
Thirty seven extra beds were made available to cope with demand late last week.
The Hospital said today that two other wards, Lowman and Mere, also have isolated areas where Norovirus has been confirmed. As a result, around eight beds are not available for use.
A representative of The RD&E said: "The hospital is pleased to report this reduction in the number of areas affected by Norovirus since late last week but would remind anyone who has suffered symptoms of the highly infectious Norovirus bug – including vomiting and diarrhoea - to stay away from the hospital until they have been free of the symptoms for at least 48 hours.
"Anyone planning to visit patients on Okement, Lowman or Mere wards is advised to call the hospital switchboard on 01392 411611 first to check if any restrictions are in place on visiting hours."
Cases of Norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea and is more common in the winter months,
There have been rising at the RD&E over the Christmas and New Year period, placing extra pressure on hospital bed capacity at a very busy time for the hospital.
Its symptoms are very distinctive – patients often report a sudden onset of nausea followed by projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea. Some people also experience headaches, mild temperature and stomach cramps.
There is no treatment for the virus but it is important to keep hydrated to combat the loss of fluids.
Most people will recover within a few days and there are no long-term effects.
