Infection control

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• Norovirus
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Infection Control: Norovirus

What is it?

Norovirus is the most common cause of infectious gastroenteritis (diarrhoea and vomiting) in England and Wales. The Illness is generally mild and people usually recover fully within 2-3 days; there are no long term effects that result from being infected.  Infections can occur at any age because immunity is not long lasting.

How is it spread?

The virus is easily transmitted from one person to another. It can be transmitted by contact with an infected person; by consuming contaminated food or water or by contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. The infectious dose is very low, swallowing as few as 10 - 100 virus particles may be enough to cause illness.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.  Symptoms often start with the sudden onset of nausea followed by projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea.  However, not all of those infected will experience all of the symptoms.  Some people may also have a raised temperature, headaches and aching limbs. Symptoms usually begin around 12 to 48 hours after becoming infected. The illness is self-limiting and the symptoms will last for 12 to 60 hours.  Most people make a full recovery within 1-2 days, however some people (usually the very young or elderly) may become very dehydrated and require hospital treatment.

How can I limit the spread?

There are things that people can do to limit the impact of Norovirus and include:

• Stay away from work or school until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours
• Do not visit friends or relatives in hospital or residential care homes as there is a real risk that you would introduce the infection into the establishment.
• Do not visit your GP surgery or local A&E unit. Norovirus infection is a self limiting illness and you will recover naturally without treatment.
• People with the condition should stay at home, ensure that their personal hygiene is good, particularly hand-washing, and avoid contact with others where possible.
• It is important to drink plenty to replace lost fluids. If symptoms persist (more than 48 hours) phone your GP or phone NHS Direct for advice
• The elderly and the very young can sometimes get more severe infection or become dehydrated. If that should be the case, they or their family, friends or carers, should telephone their GP service or phone NHS Direct for advice.
• Do not handle or prepare food for other people until you have been symptom free for a minimum period of 48 hours
• Wash hands thoroughly and regularly at all times, but particularly after toilet visits and before eating.