Norovirus - Issues and Advice for Caterers

Norovirus – ‘winter vomiting disease’

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that are the most common cause of stomach bugs in the UK. This season we have seen an increase in reports of norovirus cases - almost double the number reported for the same period last year.

What can caterers do?

The most effective way to stop the virus spreading is through good hygiene – most notably personal hygiene and effective cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, including bathrooms.  Staff who have symptoms of the virus must report this to their manager and not work in the kitchen. Food handlers should be symptom-free for 3 days before returning to work.

Personal hygiene

Hand washing should be a standard in kitchens, but it is important to remind staff of how to wash hands. Make sure there is hot water, soap and paper towel. Clean and sanitise hand basin taps regularly.

Hospitals have reported that alcohol gel is effective against bacteria but not all viruses, so the advice is to wash hands with hot water and soap. Alcohol gel is ineffective on hands, and should never be used in lieu of hand washing, especially in a kitchen environment.

Staff Toilets

If your staff share toilets with other people (e.g. customers or other staff) it is important to increase the cleaning regime, especially for flush handles, door handles and hand basin taps.  Clean with hot water and detergent to remove organic matter, then spray with a suitable sanitiser or disinfectant. Wear gloves to clean this area, and do not use these gloves or any cleaning cloths or equipment for anywhere other than the washroom.

Norovirus - what is it?

The virus causes sudden onset of nausea followed by projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea. Some people may have a fever, headaches and aching limbs. The symptoms of norovirus infection will begin around 12 to 48 hours after becoming infected. People generally recover within 1-3 days.

Norovirus often causes outbreaks because it is easily spread from one person to another and the virus is able to survive in the environment for many days. It can be transmitted by contact with an infected person; by consuming contaminated food or water or by contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

Norovirus is a particular problem in semi-closed environments, such as schools, nursing homes and hospitals.

Find out how we can help you with the control of norovirus - call us today on 0845 873 2390