Norovirus
This page provides information and advice on the virus Norovirus, which affects the human intestines.
The Norovirus is a virus that affects the human intestines. It is a common cause of food poisoning symptoms and is frequently mistaken for one of the other classic food poisonings closely associated with food.
It is often spread by droplets in the air rather than directly from food.
Symptoms
The Norovirus usually takes between 12-48 hours from becoming infected for the symptoms to develop. They include:
- vomiting - often sudden and projectile
- nausea
- diarrhoea
- abdominal cramps.
The illness usually lasts no longer than two days although you are infectious while symptoms are present and for at least two days after diarrhoea has stopped.
How is it spread?
Norovirus is mainly spread through the air from person to person. It can also be spread by contaminated food or water.
Food outbreaks have been associated with ready to eat foods e.g. salads and shellfish harvested in contaminated water. Outbreaks have also been associated with drinking water.
Prevention
Scrupulous personal hygiene is required, particularly after using the toilet.
Prompt cleaning and disinfection with dilute bleach of any area contaminated by vomit.
Be very careful with colour fastness on fabrics and follow the safety precautions on the bottle.
Can you still work?
People with symptoms should not work or attend school, nursery or childminders until symptom-free.
People who work in food businesses, hospitals or nursery schools must not return to work until 48 hours after all symptoms have ceased.
The manager of the food business should be notified of any illness you or any family member, who is ill, may have.
If people are formally excluded from work, they will normally be required not to return to work until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased.
Please remember that scrupulous personal hygiene must be observed. An anti-bacterial soap will help with thorough cleaning.
For further information, contact the Council or in case of continuing illness, consult your family doctor.
Contact
Email: food.safety@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
Tel: 01737 276417.
Last updated : 15/05/2009
