Norovirus

Norovirus is a highly infectious illness that causes gastroenteritis (severe vomiting and diarrhoea) that starts suddenly. People of all ages can get infected and sick. Where possible, appropriate infection control measures should be observed, and standard precautions should always be applied consistently in all work practices.

At Arco, we can help you to effectively implement preventative control measures that can help in the protection of employees when in close contact with people and environments where Norovirus is suspected.

Norovirus outbreaks can occur at any time of the year; however, it is referred to as "the winter vomiting bug" due to the seasonal pattern it follows as there is increased virus activity in the colder months.

People can get Norovirus more than once because the virus is always changing. Due to this, the body is unable to build up long-term resistance to it.

Norovirus is easily transmitted through:

Norovirus is typically at its most infectious from the start of symptoms until around 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, which is why it's recommended to remain at home during this time as not to infect other people.

The first sign of Norovirus is usually:

• suddenly feeling sick
• projectile vomiting
• watery non-bloody diarrhoea

Some people may also have:

• a raised temperature (over 38°C)
• headache
• painful stomach cramps
• aching limbs

It is important to drink plenty of fluids throughout illness to prevent dehydration.

Symptoms are typically mild and only last for a couple of days. There's no specific treatment for Norovirus, however seek medical advice if needed.

People who have Norovirus should be advised to stay at home, avoid direct contact with other people and preparing food for others for at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared to help reduce the risk of passing Norovirus on.

Don't wait for several cases of sickness and diarrhoea to occur before you put controls in place to prevent the spread of an outbreak. Develop an action plan. Be prepared! If an outbreak occurs swift and effective action is essential to prevent more people becoming exposed to Norovirus and to prevent an outbreak increasing in size. This is best achieved by implementing the following simple preventative actions every day.

Hand Hygiene

Regular and frequent handwashing with soap and warm water is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.

Up to 80% of all infections are transmitted by our hands throughout the day¹.

Hands should be washed thoroughly for at least 20 seconds altogether (rinsing and lathering). Germs can be transferred more easily to and from wet hands, so hands should be dried thoroughly preferably with disposable paper hand towels. Paper hand towels can also be used to turn the tap off after use. Dispose used hand towels immediately after use.

Do not share food or eat any items that may have been prepared by someone with Norovirus.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Effective cleaning is one of the single most important factors in reducing the spread of Norovirus as the virus can survive for several days on surfaces and objects touched by an infected person.

After cleaning, disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated, including any high-touch points. Even a small amount of Norovirus on a banister or door handle can cause illness.

Wear protective gloves and use a chlorine bleach (hypochlorite) solution made to BS 5197 or BS 6424, or a disinfectant that's effective against Norovirus³. The preferred disinfectant is 0.1% sodium hypochlorite (1000 parts per million available Chlorine)³. This applies to areas where a person has vomited as well as washrooms.

Clean Up

It is important to clean up any hazardous bodily fluids such as faeces and vomit as soon as possible. Disturb soiled material as little as possible to avoid spreading Norovirus by air. Place soiled items in plastic bags and place them in the bin. Remove and wash clothes that may be contaminated.

Body fluid kit contains the necessary products to ensure that the affected area can be cleaned effectively and made safe.

We're here to help ensure you have the right information, control measures and products to create a safer working environment.

At Arco, we offer a comprehensive range of products designed to help keep you, your employees and visitors safe from workplace illnesses such as Norovirus.

1: Ashford St Peters Hospitals: Norovirus
2: FSA Research
3: NHS England