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At Benenden Hospital we're very proud of our people, who work so hard to enable a safe, comfortable, patient-focused environment for those in our care.Norovirus produces a gastroenteritis-type illness and is extremely infectious.
It is an extremely infectious stomach bug belonging to a group of viruses called Norovirus. This produces a gastro-enteritis type illness. It is dubbed the ‘winter vomiting virus’ because it is more likely to cause illness during the winter months. These infections are however common all the year round.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and some stomach cramping. Sometimes people additionally have a low grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a general sense of tiredness. The illness is short lived and normally resolved over 24-48 hours.
It is extremely contagious.
Norovirus is found in the stool or vomit of infected people. People can become infected with the virus in several ways, including eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with Norovirus, or touching surfaces or objects contaminated with Norovirus, and then placing their hand in their mouth.
Having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms (for example, when caring for some one with the illness, or sharing foods or eating utensils with someone that is ill). People infected with Norovirus are contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill to at least 3 days after recovery. Some people may be contagious for as long as 2 weeks after recovery.
We advise patients who have had Norovirus, or who may be suffering from it, not to come to the hospital. Please ring and speak to one of the Infection Control Team or inform the ward where you will be having your procedure performed.
We would ask you to wait for 48 hours after the symptoms of the diarrhoea and vomiting have completely gone before having a procedure (or coming into the hospital)
Please do not visit Benenden Hospital if you are suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting. Make sure the symptoms have completely gone for at least 48 hours before visiting the hospital.
Please inform your manager and Infection Control Team as soon as possible. You should not return to work until 48 hours after the symptoms have completely gone. If concerned please contact the Infection Control Team or the Occupational Health Department.
Unfortunately there is no specific treatment for Norovirus apart from letting the illness run its course; therefore it is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
It is particularly important for patients, visitors and staff to use correct hand hygiene.
There are Infection Control Link Nurses in every clinical area. They can be contacted on 01580 240333 Ex 7286 or Ex 7043