
Funny, it doesn’t seem to matter what month it is or if it is “flu season”, the pesky Norovirus still finds us! This year is no different, the virus is everywhere and sadly, when it finds us, it can be devastating. Our residents are at risk of negative outcomes, not only from the virus itself but from social isolation as well. Remember, per the CDC residents with norovirus need to be placed in contact precautions for a minimum of 48 hours after the resolution of symptoms.
What to do if you suspect that your center has norovirus? Here are a few ideas from the CDC:
- Assign staff who have recovered from recent suspected norovirus infection associated with an outbreak to care for symptomatic residents until the outbreak resolves.
- Minimize resident movement within a ward or unit during norovirus outbreaks.
- Restrict symptomatic and recovering residents from leaving the resident-care area unless it is for essential care or treatment.
- Suspend group activities (i.e., dining events) for the duration of a norovirus outbreak.
- Promote hand hygiene among healthcare personnel, residents, and visitors in resident care areas.
- Use soap and water for hand hygiene after providing care or having contact with residents suspected or confirmed with norovirus.
- Adhere to recommended PPE use based on Contact and Standard Precautions.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces three times daily using EPA-approved products for healthcare settings.
Another recommendation that I found interesting? Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHR) are NOT effective at preventing the spread of norovirus! The CDC recommends that ABHR be used PRIOR to physical contact with a resident suspected of being infected with norovirus but use SOAP and WATER after contact. This could be a game changer, are your staff aware that they must use soap and water versus hand sanitizer?
Now that I have overwhelmed you, take a deep breath and get back on your hamster wheel, this too shall pass. Need assistance with hand hygiene compliance? HealthCap’s Resource and Education Center can help with hand hygiene competency tools. Take a look, can’t find what you are looking for? Contact us, we are here to help! Go wash your hands, stay well and stay informed!