A Westmead nursing home is in lock-down after an outbreak of gastroenteritis.

A spokeswoman from the Sydney West Area Health Service (SWAHS) confirmed the outbreak but said it was not contained to the nursing home.

''Yes we are working with staff [at the nursing home] after a number of cases of gastroenteritis,'' the spokeswoman said.

''But there are a lot of cases throughout western Sydney at the moment, it's quite common. The instances are really high.''

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically resulting from bacterial toxins or vial infection and causing vomiting and diarrhoea.

A relative of a resident at the Mayflower Aged Care Centre and Nursing Home contacted the Sun this morning after receiving a phone call from the facility's management.

The relative was told the facility would be shut for 48 hours to protect the residents and to help prevent the spread of the illness.

No visitors would be permitted entry during that time, the relative was told.

Another relative who went to the Helen Street facility this morning found the doors locked and a sign announcing what had happened.

Steve Teulan, Acting Regional Director of UnitingCare Ageing western region, the organisation that owns Mayflower, said the situation was under control.

''A number of residents of Mayflower Aged Care Centre are experiencing gastroenteritis,'' Mr Teulan said.

''The Department of Health has been notified and the Department protocol is being followed.

''Mayflower Aged Care Centre is working closely with the Department of Health. As required in these cases, the facility is in lock down and visits are restricted until further notice.''Staff are to be commended on their high level of professionalism and adherence to protocols and procedures in this situation.

''We appreciate the patience of our residents and their relatives while these procedures are in place.''

The SWAHS did not say how many residents were affected but said it was important to note that the nursing home had not done anything wrong.

''There's just a very high prevalence this winter and people who are older are much more at risk,'' the spokeswoman said.

SWAHS will be providing more information on the situation over the coming days.

The Sun has also contacted the NSW Department of Health for comment.

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Source: Parramatta Sun - Natalie Oliveri