Latest national UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) surveillance data shows that laboratory reports of norovirus are more than double the 5-season average prior to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Reporting has increased across all age groups, most notably in those aged 65 years and over.
Norovirus is highly infectious and is easily spread through contact with someone with the infection or with contaminated surfaces. One of the best ways to prevent the spread of norovirus is by regularly washing hands with soap and warm water especially after using the toilet or an episode of illness and before eating or preparing food. Most people will make a full recovery within 2 to 3 days, but it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially for the very young, elderly or those with weakened immune systems who are more at risk.
Nursing and residential homes should be safe but homely. During outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis, residents should be managed effectively whilst maintaining the comfortable and pleasant environment that they usually enjoy. Any resident with possible infectious diarrhoea and/or vomiting needs to be segregated from other,
asymptomatic residents. The manager of the home should inform the local health protection organisation of the suspected outbreak. Ideally, residents should confine themselves to their rooms until recovered and 48h symptom-free. The specific difficulties associated with the management of residents with dementia or cognitive issues should have a relevant risk assessment completed ad explore limits as part of a best interest decision. I know this is easier said than done and the manager should seek advice and support from external professionals.
Symptomatic staff including catering and domestic staff should be symptom free for 48 hours before returning to work and bank and agency staff should eb kept to a minimum to prevent cross infection across other services.
For detailed guidance, providers should refer to: Guidelines for the management of norovirus outbreaks in acute and community health and social care settings (publishing.service.gov.uk)
