Health Protection Scotland (HPS) has issued advice for medical and health care students regarding precautions to be taken against Norovirus.
Norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting virus, is most commonly seen during winter months, particularly from late October through to early spring. Infection is typically transmitted by the faecal-oral route and manifests as vomiting and diarrhoea. The spread of infection is rapid in hospitals and care homes. Most individuals recover completely within a couple of days; however, some including the very young or elderly could experience dehydration necessitating hospital admission.
HPS advises medical and health care students that if they have acquired Norovirus they should stay at home during the symptomatic phase and should not resume work for at least 48 hours after complete resolution of symptoms.
Recommendations when working in a clinical setting during an outbreak include:
- Medical and health care students should follow guidance on Norovirus applicable in the ward area and adhere to transmission-based precautions.
- In case of ward closure due to Norovirus, it is appropriate to seek advice of the person in charge of the clinical area.
- Alcohol-based hand rub may not be effective for Norovirus, hence hand washing with soap and water is recommended.
- Disposable gloves and aprons should be used when working with infected individuals and their immediate care environment.
- To avoid the risk of splash from vomit, fluid-resistant surgical facemask should be used during procedures.