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Norovirus
The Norovirus group of germs cause gastroenteritis, food-poisoning or ‘Winter Vomiting Disease’
How does it spread?
You can pick up Norovirus through contact with contaminated people, objects or surfaces, and by ingesting food or water contaminated with infected faecal matter. Vomiting caused by the illness allows the germs to become airborne, reaching anyone in the area and possibly infecting them with the virus. Because Nororvirus can survive in the environment for days, controlling the spread of infection can be very difficult.
Symptoms
Illness can begin very suddenly and sufferers usually experience vomiting and diarrhoea. Other symptoms include fever, headaches and aching limbs. Those infected can become dehydrated because they are unable to replace the amount of water lost through the severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
People most at risk
Everyone is at risk from Norovirus infections. There are so many different strains, that any immunity the body builds does not stop the virus for long. Because the Norovirus spreads so rapidly, patients in semi-closed environments (like hospitals and care homes), have an increased risk of infection, with young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems particularly vulnerable to dehydration.
Best prevention
- Hand hygiene is essential. Use a hand sanitiser and wash hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the toilet, before handling food or coming into contact with and infected person or their belongings.
- Frequently disinfect toilet, and toilet area.
- Keep surfaces hygienically clean, especially food preparation areas, handles and switches.
- Regularly sanitise items that are used often, such as; telephones, kettles, remotes etc.
- Cloths used for cleaning should be completely disinfected by soaking in bleach.