What is Norovirus
Norovirus or Norwalk virus is the commonest cause of infectious gastroenteritis (diarrhoea and vomiting) and tends to be more common over the winter months.
Outbreaks of norovirus generally start out in the community. Because the virus is highly contagious it can cause major problems in schools, hotels, nursing homes and even cruise ships. If people infected with norovirus come into the hospital, there is the potential that the virus can spread quickly.
People infected with norovirus typically get vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. They may also feel generally unwell with ’flu-like symptoms such as a fever and muscle and joint pains. Symptoms don’t generally last more than 48 hours.
If you have vomiting or diarrhoea, please do not visit the hospital until everything has been back to normal for 48 hours.
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Norovirus patient information leaflet
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www.hpa.org.uk
What are we doing to protect you?
The management of outbreaks by the Infection Prevention and Control Team has been greatly facilitated by the introduction of rapid diagnostic technology. Wheras previously wards were closed as a precaution as soon as patients developed symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting, it is now possible to determine on the same day whether norovirus is the cause or not. When the test is positive, wards are normally closed and standard infection control measures put in place. When the test is negative, it is safe to leave wards open. Consequently, the number of unnecessary ward closures has been dramatically reduced, with substantially less disruption to the operational management of the hospital.
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Norovirus statistics monthly chart
The outbreaks are controlled by containment, enhanced infection control procedures, and environmental cleaning. If a ward is closed there will be signs on the ward door
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Ward closed sign
Staff and visitors are asked to wash their hands using water and soap when caring or visiting patients.
Staff and visitors to stay away from the hospital if they have vomiting or diarrhoea.