Norovirus Update

This cartoon scene of man sneezing in crowded cinema, designed by Herbert Mayo Bateman was to be used in the series ‘Coughs and Sneezes Spread Diseases', launched by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Information in 1942. The message from the Department of Health remains the same nearly 70 years later as we start fighting off coughs, colds and the viruses which cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

Late in 2008, ‘winter vomiting disease’ made an earlier than usual appearance, making thousands of people ill.  We are now warned that the coldest start to winter for 30 years could contribute to a surge in norovirus.

Norovirus is the most common cause of sickness and diarrhoea in England and Wales and the number of cases typically begins to rise in the winter months. Last year more than three million people were struck down by the bug, which can prove deadly to children, the elderly and the infirm.  It is highly contagious, and people who handle food should be excluded from duties until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

'Unfortunately there is no specific treatment for norovirus apart from letting the illness run its course,' said the HPA. Most people will make a full recovery within 1 to 2 days but it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time to prevent dehydration especially in the very young or elderly.

Last year In House prepared an information leaflet to help food businesses deal with the challenges of norovirus – click here to link through to this free guidance to help you reduce your exposure in 2010. 

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