2008 Archive

Norovirus Outbreak

Nov 14, 2008

Residents advised to take precautions, including washing hands

Edmonton, Canada – In the last two weeks, 12 outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness, mostly caused by norovirus (formerly Norwalk virus), have been identified in nursing homes, seniors' residences and child care facilities in the Edmonton area.

Norovirus is a highly contagious viral infection that occurs throughout the year, but is more common in the winter months. Symptoms include vomiting and/or diarrhea, and may also include muscle aches and low-grade fever. Although unpleasant, symptoms usually only last 24 to 48 hours and no special treatment is required.

"The good news is that norovirus is preventable," said Dr. Gerry Predy, Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services in the Edmonton area. "The best way to prevent the spread of norovirus is frequent hand washing and individuals who are ill staying at home."

People can become infected with the virus in several ways, including:

• eating food that was handled by someone ill with norovirus
• touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus, and then placing their hand in their mouth
• having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms (for example, when providing care to someone with illness).

Individuals who are ill and have symptoms of norovirus should drink plenty of fluids, and remain at home until the symptoms have disappeared. If symptoms are severe or last more than 72 hours, call your family physician or Health Link Alberta at 780-408-LINK (5465) or toll free at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).

Dr. Predy recommends a few simple precautions to help people stay healthy and avoid illness:

• Always wash your hands after using the washroom, after providing care to an ill person, after handling soiled laundry or diapers and before handling food. Washing your hands breaks the chain of transmission
• Anyone who is vomiting and/or has diarrhea should, where possible, avoid the following activities until the symptoms are over:
  • attending schools or child care facilitie
  • visiting friends and relatives in seniors' residences, nursing homes or hospitals
  • preparing food for others.

For more information on norovirus, call Health Link Alberta to speak to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 780 408-LINK (5465) or, outside the local calling area, toll free 1-866-408-LINK.

Additional resources:

• Cover your cough / handwashing
  

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