Post by Madhatter on Dec 20, 2012 13:56:43 GMT
Public urged to help combat the spread of sickness bug in the community
Published Thursday 20th December 2012
The NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire is urging the public to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious winter sickness bug, norovirus.
Norovirus is very common at this time of year and outbreaks of the virus are being reported around the country. For most people it is no worse than a short bout of diarrhoea and vomiting that should clear up within 24-72 hours. However, for the more vulnerable, it can have a more significant effect.
One ward remains shut at both George Eliot Hospital and Warwick Hospital.
Norovirus is not just a problem that occurs in hospitals however, and health professionals are asking the public to help prevent the spread of the virus in the community. Director of Public Health in Warwickshire, Dr. John Linnane, is issuing the following advice:
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Ensure that toilet areas in your home are kept clean, particularly if you have been experiencing symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting.
Wash any clothing or linen that could be contaminated with norovirus.
Disinfect any hard surfaces that could be contaminated.
Stay away from hospitals, work, school or social gatherings until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.
John added: “By taking simple precautionary measures such as frequently washing your hands with soap and water, you can help combat the spread of this virus in our community, protecting yourself and those around you. No one wants to be ill over the festive period and these simple measures can make all the difference.”
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Public Health at Warwickshire County Council, Councillor Bob Stevens said:
“Norovirus is extremely unpleasant and can lead to dehydration in the elderly, the infirm and babies. In light of this and to help reduce the spread of infection, I would strongly urge residents to follow the guidelines suggested by Dr John Linnane to ensure that they have a happy and healthy Christmas.”
News article courtesy of Warwickshire County Council.
Published Thursday 20th December 2012
The NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire is urging the public to help prevent the spread of the highly contagious winter sickness bug, norovirus.
Norovirus is very common at this time of year and outbreaks of the virus are being reported around the country. For most people it is no worse than a short bout of diarrhoea and vomiting that should clear up within 24-72 hours. However, for the more vulnerable, it can have a more significant effect.
One ward remains shut at both George Eliot Hospital and Warwick Hospital.
Norovirus is not just a problem that occurs in hospitals however, and health professionals are asking the public to help prevent the spread of the virus in the community. Director of Public Health in Warwickshire, Dr. John Linnane, is issuing the following advice:
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Ensure that toilet areas in your home are kept clean, particularly if you have been experiencing symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting.
Wash any clothing or linen that could be contaminated with norovirus.
Disinfect any hard surfaces that could be contaminated.
Stay away from hospitals, work, school or social gatherings until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.
John added: “By taking simple precautionary measures such as frequently washing your hands with soap and water, you can help combat the spread of this virus in our community, protecting yourself and those around you. No one wants to be ill over the festive period and these simple measures can make all the difference.”
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Public Health at Warwickshire County Council, Councillor Bob Stevens said:
“Norovirus is extremely unpleasant and can lead to dehydration in the elderly, the infirm and babies. In light of this and to help reduce the spread of infection, I would strongly urge residents to follow the guidelines suggested by Dr John Linnane to ensure that they have a happy and healthy Christmas.”
News article courtesy of Warwickshire County Council.
