Imagine going into the hospital to recover from an illness or have some sort of routine surgery performed, only to end up catching a virus that leaves you sicker than when you entered the hospital in the first place. Well, unfortunately, this isn’t as rare as you may think, as viruses such as Norovirus can happen.
According to statistics, 1.7 million healthcare infections happen each year, and of those, 99,000 lead to death. What that means is that roughly one out of every 20 patients that enter a healthcare facility develops a healthcare infection. Some of the most common infections include urinary tract infections, surgical site infections, bloodstream infections, pneumonia, influenza, staph infections, and norovirus.
Here we will take a look at the norovirus specifically and what can be done to prevent the spread of hospital acquired infections.
Define What an Outbreak Is
In order to identify whether or not the healthcare facility is experiencing an “outbreak” of norovirus, a clear definition of an outbreak must be made. Experts recommend that hospitals adopt the definition of two or more cases that are linked to a common source. By having this clear definition, hospitals will then be ready to act when necessary.
Close Off the Affected Wards
The first step in helping to prevent the spread of the norovirus is to quickly identify it and close off the ward(s) that are affected by the outbreak. Hospitals want to keep the virus as contained as possible so that it can’t spread through the entire population. In most cases, the incubation period is 24-48 hours. It is a fast-spreading virus that sets in quickly and doesn’t last long. This is exactly why it can spread so fast.
During the time that the ward is closed, no new patients should be admitted into that area until it is clear of the norovirus.
Reduce Staff and Visitors in the Affected Ward
If you are closing off award, this means you should also be reducing the number of staff and visitors that enter the area that has been affected. This again will help to prevent the spread of the illness.
Proper Cleaning and Disinfecting Steps Must Be Taken
Of course, all cleaning and disinfecting steps must also be taken in order to prevent the spread of the virus. This means cleaning up messes immediately after they happen (fecel and/or vomit). Cleaning should involve not just a simple quick mopping up but also a thorough disinfecting of the affected area. As well, all staff and visitors should be following strict and proper handwashing guidelines. When it comes to prevention, a high level of hygiene is actually the most powerful step to take.
Additionally, disposable gloves, aprons, and masks should also be used when in contact with infected patients and while discarding any contaminated materials.
Prevention Measures Can Make a Huge Difference
Norovirus is a very quick moving illness that can hit patients extremely hard. By making sure you have an action plan in place, proper disinfecting and hygiene practices are used, and you close off affected areas, prevention is much more attainable.
