Patient Information Leaflet - Viral Gastroenteritis Norovirus

Viral Gastroenteritis Norovirus

Introduction

This leaflet will provide you with information about norovirus (viral gastroenteritis, how it will affect you and treatment information.  


If after reading the leaflet you have any further questions, please speak with one of the team.

Norovirus is a frequent cause of diarrhoea and vomiting in the community, most common during the winter.  It is sometimes called winter vomiting disease.
Symptoms last around 2 to 3 days but usually get better without any interventions.  

They include:

  • A raised temperature.
  • Headaches.
  • Aching limbs.

Norovirus spreads easily especially in settings such as hospitals and nursing homes.  Large numbers of patients, staff and visitors can be affected so it is important to stop the illness from spreading.

If you do become unwell on the ward, you may be:

  • Asked to restrict your movements until your symptoms have resolved. 
  • Moved to a side room or to an area with other patients with the same illness.
  • Delayed in being transferred to another ward or a care home until the illness is over.

Usually 48 hours after the last symptom, no further action is necessary.

Visiting is not advised without prior permission from the nurse in charge who will provide guidance.
If a visitor has diarrhoea or vomiting themselves, they should not visit until they have been free from symptoms for a period of 48 hours.
Visitors who are permitted on the ward need to follow the guidance below:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after visiting.
  • Avoid visiting other ward areas.


Any soiled clothing taken home to be washed should be in a plastic carrier bag and washed separately on the highest temperature that the clothing will allow.