The Queen Charlotte hospital is asking visitors to take extra precautions after an outbreak of gastro-intestinal illness at the facility over the weekend.As of Wednesday afternoon, a total of seven staff members and patients had reported they were suffering from the virus.The hospital has enhanced its infection prevention procedures, but patients are still being admitted and visitors are welcome, according to Eryn Collins, Northern Health's Communications Officer."It is a common illness that includes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, chills and fever", Ms Collins said. She also said gastro-intestinal illness normally peaks between December and March, but does happen in other months.Those visiting the Queen Charlotte hospital are being asked to wash their hands often and increase their awareness of the virus, which is highly contagious. As well, anyone with symptoms themselves in the past 48 hours are asked not to visit the hospital.Northern Health also advises anyone with the virus to stay at home and avoid work or school until 48 to 72 hours after their symptoms disappear.The hospital in Masset, also run by Northern Health, has not been affected.