This leaflet explains what Norovirus is and how you can help prevent the spread of infection. This leaflet is not intended to replace the discussion between you and your doctor or nurse but can act as a starting point for discussions.
What is Norovirus?
It is a virus which causes both individual cases and outbreaks of gastroenteritis. This is particularly common in places like schools, residential homes and hospitals due to close contact with other people.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms usually start within 12 to 48 hours of being infected. This starts with sudden onset of nausea (feeling sick), followed by vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
Who is at risk?
About 1% of the population is affected each year, usually during the winter. Although it can occur at any time of the year, this is sometimes called the winter vomiting bug. Those most at risk of norovirus include the very young, the elderly and people with impaired immune systems.
How is Norovirus diagnosed?
A specimen of your stool or vomit will be sent to the laboratory for testing.
How is Norovirus treated?
There is no course of treatment. There is a risk of dehydration (lack of fluids) whilst you have symptoms, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Once the illness is over, no further action is required. Norovirus generally does not require hospitalisation.
What precautions are necessary if I am in hospital?
If you are an inpatient in hospital and have symptoms, you will be moved to a single room or nursed in a bay with other patients who have the same infection. This is to reduce the risk of the infection spreading to other people. You will be given your own toilet or commode. All staff will wash their hands upon entering and leaving your room. When giving direct personal care, staff will be wearing gloves and aprons.
Can I still have visitors?
Wherever possible, visitors will be asked to stay away during the outbreak. If this is not possible, they must wash their hands with soap and warm running water. Visitors must also wear aprons and gloves whilst visiting.
Can I go home after being told I have Norovirus?
If you are feeling well, there is no reason you should need to stay in hospital. Whilst at home with symptoms:
- You and your family members should wash their hands regularly, especially before preparing food, before and after eating and after using the bathroom.
- Surfaces in bathrooms, kitchens and other areas should be cleaned on a regular basis.
- Wash dirty linen separately to your family members.
When can I go back to work or school?
You can return to work or school once you have been free from symptoms for a full 48 hours.
George Eliot Hospital is a smoke free environment. For help and advice to stop smoking you can call the national helpline on 0300 123 1044 or visit https://
Copyright
Except where otherwise noted, this item is licensed under the CC BY license (https://
If you are a rights holder and are concerned that you have found material on our patient information resources website, for which you have not given permission, or is not covered by a limitation or exception in national law, please contact us using the Feedback form providing your contact information and full details of the material.