Winter Vomiting (SRSV) (Norovirus)
Norovirus (NoV)
- Is a virus that causes one of the commonest forms of gastroenteritis.
- Up to 5% of the population will develop it each year.
- Occurs throughout the year but in winter close indoor contact makes spread more likely (”winter vomiting disease”).
- Outbreaks in hospitals, nursing and residential homes, nurseries, schools, hotels, cruise ships etc
Clinical
- Incubation period 24 hrs
- Sudden onset : Vomiting and diarrhoea +/- headaches, myalgia, fever, and abdominal pain.
- Usually full rapid recovery in <48 hours
- Vomit VERY infectious. Patients continue to shed virus for 48 hours after resolution of symptoms
- Most at risk: Food handlers, clinicians, children in playgroups or nursery
Hygiene
- Cover vomit immediately and cordon area to prevent further contamination.
- Cleaner to wear precautions (gloves and apron).
- Thorough cleaning with hot water and detergent (0.1% hypochlorite (bleach) solution)
- Dispose of cloths used
- Similar cleaning of any toilet and hand basin /taps used by infected person (wearing rubber gloves)
- Always flush the toilet with the seat down.
- No return to work for 48 hours after symptoms have resolved.
