How to prevent spread of Norovirus infection?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am the head of a small nursing home, and we have got what appears to be norovirus spreading through our facility like wildfire. It started in the memory care unit three days ago and has now affected 12 residents and five staff members. We have implemented isolation protocols, but with limited staff (many now sick themselves), it is becoming unmanageable. Two of our most elderly residents (88 years and 93 years) are showing signs of severe dehydration despite our best efforts with oral rehydration. At what point should we transfer them to the hospital? Can we request intravenous (IV) fluids to be administered here instead? We are cleaning with bleach solution hourly but the virus seems to keep spreading. Is there a more effective disinfectant we should be using? How long should we maintain quarantine procedures for affected residents after symptoms resolve?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

According to your concern regarding norovirus, you can use intravenous (IV) fluids to keep them hydrated in isolation without admitting them to the hospital and regularly monitoring their hydration. There is no need to admit them only for dehydration.

I advise you to do the following:

To control the spread of infection to others, use general precautions and wash hands frequently with soap and water.
After the symptoms resolve, maintain one week of quarantine.
There is no specific treatment for norovirus. Just do symptomatic treatment and maintain hydration.
To prevent spread, wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or handling food.
Rinse fruits and vegetables with clean running water.

Kindly consult a specialist doctor, talk with them, and take medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.