Combat the Rise of Norovirus with Wolf

According to a recent national report by GOV.uk, Norovirus has shown an unexpected increase in cases outside its typical season. 

Throughout March and April of this year, there was a sharp 75% rise in diagnosed cases compared to previous years during the same period. By late April, a noticeable uptick in infections was recorded among adults aged 65 and older, coinciding with a surge in outbreaks within healthcare and social care facilities.

In response to these alarming trends, vulnerable settings such as care homes, hospitals, sheltered housing, and nurseries are facing heightened risks and urgent needs for effective outbreak management strategies. 

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” making its appearance this summer startling. It is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis in humans.

Norovirus spreads easily through contaminated food or water, close contact with infected individuals, and touching contaminated surfaces. The virus can survive on surfaces for extended periods and is notorious for causing outbreaks in settings where people are in close proximity, such as schools, cruise ships, hospitals, and nursing homes. 

While norovirus infections are usually self-limiting and resolve within a few days, the illness can be severe, especially for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

How to spot Norovirus Symptoms?

Norovirus infection typically manifests with the following signs and symptoms:

1. Nausea: Often sudden and intense.

2. Vomiting: Can be frequent and severe.

3. Diarrhoea: Watery and frequent bowel movements.

4. Stomach Cramps: Abdominal pain and discomfort.

5. Fever: Sometimes present, but not always.

6. Body Aches: Generalised muscle aches and fatigue.

These symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and can persist for 1 to 3 days.

I own/work in a vulnerable setting, how can I prevent outbreaks and what should I do if one starts?

We’ve put together a range of resources to help assist all vulnerable settings deal with various superbug outbreaks, including Norovirus.

 Encouraging frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and before handling food, is crucial. Regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, faucets, and communal areas also helps reduce the spread of the virus. 

Staff training on proper sanitation protocols and the prompt isolation of symptomatic individuals are essential steps to contain outbreaks swiftly. Additionally, promoting awareness among residents, patients, and visitors about Norovirus symptoms and preventative measures can further mitigate the risk of infection.

Our Top Recommendations:

At Wolf, we understand that maintaining impeccable standards in vulnerable settings is not just about cleanliness; it’s about ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of residents, patients, and staff alike. 

Reducing the risk of cross contamination is imperative, within the laundry, private and communal areas. Our commercial solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of vulnerable settings, following the strictest guidelines and best practices to provide outstanding service.

Our Schulthess Range

The Schulthess Proline and Topline

Both the Proline and Topline ranges boast advanced hygiene benefits with specialised wash cycles and high-temperature options, ensuring effective thermal disinfection and sanitisation of linens and garments. Designed for efficiency and reliability in vulnerable settings, they maintain fabric integrity while effectively combating infections and viruses.

Dishwashing

The Smeg UD520DS Thermal Disinfection Dishwasher

Equipped with specialised thermal disinfection cycles that ensure thorough cleaning and sanitisation of dishes, effectively reducing the risk of infections. Its advanced features maintain high hygiene standards suitable for all vulnerable settings where cleanliness and infection control are paramount.

Infection Control

The Wolf Ozone Room Sanitiser

Our Ozone Room Sanitiser uses ozone (O3), a powerful molecule composed of three oxygen atoms, to effectively neutralise bacteria, viruses, and odours upon contact. Its automated operation and built-in ozone destruction capability ensure safe, sanitised rooms with no lingering chemical residue, offering both convenience and peace of mind in maintaining clean, healthy air.

Conclusion:

As Norovirus cases surge unexpectedly outside its typical season, the need for effective outbreak management in vulnerable settings like care homes, hospitals, and nurseries has never been more critical. 

At Wolf, we are committed to supporting vulnerable settings with innovative solutions that prioritise safety, comfort, and well-being. Our products are tailored to meet the stringent hygiene needs of healthcare facilities, ensuring peace of mind amidst the challenges posed by Norovirus and other pathogens.

Contact us today.