10 Simple Tips for Prevention of Norovirus Outbreak
Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Outbreaks are very common in crowded places like schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships, and are especially dangerous for young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
To prevent a norovirus outbreak in your workplace or home, follow these 10 simple tips:
1. Wash Your Hands Frequently
Norovirus is transmitted through contact with surfaces and objects contaminated with the virus. Washing your hands with soap and water is the easiest way to prevent infection. Use warm water and a good lather, washing for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling food, after using the bathroom, and after coughing or sneezing.
2. Don’t Share Personal Items
Sharing personal items like towels, utensils, and glasses can easily spread norovirus. Be sure to keep your personal items to yourself and wash them frequently with hot water and soap.
3. Disinfect Surfaces Regularly
It’s important to regularly disinfect surfaces that get touched frequently such as doorknobs, countertops, and phones. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer or disinfectant spray to kill any lingering germs.
4. Cook Food Thoroughly
Make sure to cook food thoroughly, especially meats, poultry, and eggs, which can all be sources of norovirus. Use a food thermometer to make sure that meat is cooked to the appropriate temperature.
5. Stay Away from Sick People
If someone around you is sick with norovirus, stay away from them to prevent getting infected yourself. Norovirus is highly contagious, and can spread quickly through close contact with an infected person.
6. Practice Good Food Handling Habits
When preparing and serving food, use gloves and utensils to avoid contaminating the food with your hands. Wash your hands frequently and keep cutting boards and surfaces clean.
7. Avoid Touching Your Face
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are all entry points for the virus. If you do touch your face, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly.
8. Stay Home If You’re Sick
If you’re feeling sick, stay home. Avoid going to work, school, or public places until you feel better. This will help prevent the spread of the virus to others.
9. Use a Chlorine Bleach Solution to Clean
If you’re cleaning up after someone who’s been sick with norovirus, use a chlorine bleach solution. Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water and use this solution to clean all surfaces and areas that may be contaminated.
10. Be Vigilant When Traveling
Norovirus outbreaks are common on cruise ships and in other crowded travel situations. Be sure to wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and practice good food handling habits to prevent infection.
In conclusion, preventing norovirus infection is relatively simple, but it requires diligence and consistency. Follow these tips to protect yourself and those around you from this highly contagious virus.
