Heathlands Village care home in north Manchester was closed to visitors this week after a stomach bug outbreak among residents.

The home shut its doors from Monday as part of a medical protocol to prevent the illness spreading. Karen Phillips, chief executive of the Federation of Jewish Services, which administers Heathlands, said only a small number of residents had been infected.

"We've always had policy in place for dealing with any infection. With 230 residents and a maximum of 500 people on site altogether, it's far better to act with caution."

Lila Levy was advised not to see her 86-year-old husband David for at least three days after two residents in his unit contracted the bug."I normally go every day. But they said not to take any chances. It's only supposed to be a 48-hour stomach bug."

Heathlands said no one had been admitted to hospital.