Following an outbreak of sickness in school this week, Public Health Wales have issued the following advice.

Norovirus

Norovirus is currently circulating in local communities. Some North Wales hospitals, care homes, schools and nurseries have been affected. Due to this increased activity, I thought it might be helpful to provide you with some actions that can reduce further spread.

Norovirus causes viral gastroenteritis, which is characterised by the sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhoea, it can spread rapidly in closed environments such as schools and nurseries. However, most people do not require treatment and recover at home within one or two days. Norovirus is easily spread from person to person, or by consuming contaminated food or water or coming into contact with contaminated surfaces or objects.

Children and adults with symptoms of norovirus should follow this advice:

• Stay away from work, school or nursery until they have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours and minimise contact with others where possible.
• Keep hydrated by drinking fluids as tolerated.
• If symptoms persist (more than 48 hours) phone the GP or NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 for advice.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water regularly but particularly after toilet visits and before eating and handling food. Alcohol hand gel is not effective against norovirus.
• Don’t visit friends or relatives in hospital or residential care homes as there is a real risk of introducing the infection to the establishment.
• Don’t handle or prepare food for other people until symptom free for at least 48 hours.
• Ensure anyone with symptoms is excluded from school trips and residential trips. Schools should consider postponing these trips during an outbreak.

It is important for children to stay away from school for 48 hours from the last episode of vomiting to stop the spread of norovirus.

If you would like further clarification on this matter, please don’t hesitate to contact me at school or contact Public Health on 01352 803 234. Your support in helping to avoid further spread in the community by promoting the following advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your co-operation.

Many Thanks

Mr Williams