Handwashing advice issued as norovirus and winter flu become widespread
A recent report on the Birmingham Live website begins with the sobering statement “There is no cure for norovirus…” – according to the NHS Schools and Nurseries Guidance – and goes on to state that hand washing with soap and water is the only effective way of controlling it.
The rapidly increasing reported outbreaks of norovirus have coincided with a spike in winter flu across the West Midlands, writes Nick Horner, who quotes Public Health England‘s recent guidance, issued as a response to the current situation. It advised,
“…washing hands frequently and thoroughly with warm water and soap can protect against the spread of norovirus”.
The most recent outbreak has occurred at Mere Green Primary School in Sutton Coldfield says the article, resulting in a closure until January.
Deputy Director, PHE West Midlands Dr Helen Carter, is quoted as saying
“Norovirus is very unpleasant and highly infectious. Do not gift this, this Christmas. It causes diarrhoea and vomiting, and the bug can live on hard surfaces such as kitchen tops for hours. It spreads very quickly in places where people mix together in close proximity, such as schools, nurseries, care homes and hospitals.”
Mere Green Primary School in Sutton Coldfield shuts early for Christmas over norovirus outbreak »
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