 Norovirus, commonly known as the winter diarrhoea and vomiting bug, is circulating in Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas. It is not a healthcare associated infection but one that can spread quickly around the local community, especially in contained environments like schools, hospitals and nursing homes.
In order to control the spread of the virus Milton Keynes NHS Foundation Trust would like to remind people visiting relatives or friends in the hospital that they should not come to the hospital if they are feeling unwell or if their visit is not necessary.
The first signs of a norovirus infection are usually a sudden onset of nausea, followed by projectile vomiting and diarrhoea. These may be accompanied by a mild fever, headaches, stomach cramps or aching limbs.
As a result of cases being found in the hospital this week three wards have now been closed to new admissions. This is to help ensure that the number of patients affected is kept to an absolute minimum and these wards will be reopened as quickly as possible.
Angie Legate, Assistant Director of Infection Control said: “We always take the necessary precautions to prevent norovirus from entering our hospital and to contain it quickly when it does. Safety is our top priority and that’s why we are saying to people who have had the virus or been in close contact with someone who has it to take precautions to avoid spreading it. People should refrain from visiting the hospital if they are feeling unwell have had the bug over the past three days.”
Regular cleaning of all public and patient areas continues, and cleaning activities and regimes are regularly reviewed. Hand hygiene has been reinforced for all staff, patients and visitors. All staff are aware that soap and water should be used prior to alcohol based foam at work.
Vital precautions include:
•Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially after using the toilet and before preparing food
•Ensuring that you wash raw fruit and vegetables before you prepare and eat them
•Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces such as door and cupboard handles that are frequently touched by other people
•Using bleach-based cleaners to decontaminate toilet and bathroom areas, especially if a family member is vomiting or has diarrhoea
Noroviruses are part of a group of viruses that are the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the UK and are estimated to affect between 600,000 and 1 million people every year. The symptoms normally start between one and two days after the initial exposure, although they can begin after as little as 12 hours. The virus can be spread through contact with an infected person, through contact with surfaces or objects that are contaminated, or by consuming contaminated food or water.
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