New Japanese variant encourages vigilance in hospitals across the UK and Ireland
Chris Whieldon
Designer and manufacturer of portable handwash units for medical facilities, catering, motor vehicles, care homes and home care, the beauty industry and schools and nurseries.
Handwashing with soap and water deemed “essential” as norovirus levels increase
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recently warned of the onset of a so-called Japanese variant of norovirus – known as GII.17 Kawasaki – which is currently “responsible for 70% of cases”, according to a report on The Mirror website.
The report by Neil Shaw states that the latest variant has forced cases up by 16% in just two weeks, with 447 lab assessed cases numbering 447.
Worryingly, the number of people in hospital with norovirus was reported as being 25% above the national five year average.
And it’s hospitals, medical facilities in general and care homes that present the greatest challenge under these circumstances, with weak, elderly and vulnerable individuals being at greater risk from contracting the illness.
The UKHSA’s deputy director of gastrointestinal infections Gauri Godbole warned the general public to “avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.”
Why hand washing is so important
There is no specific treatment for norovirus says the article, though it seems that a possible vaccine is in development. Which leaves only preventative measures. And top of the list is good old-fashioned hand washing. The report advocates
“Frequent hand washing with soap and water (especially after using the restroom and before eating).”
Meanwhile, University Hospital Galway https://www2.hse.ie/services/hospitals/galway-university-hospital/ recently took decisive action when confronted by an outbreak of the winter vomiting bug. Visitor numbers were curtailed to help prevent its spread, with already diligent hand hygiene protocols being further enhanced.
The few visitors admitted on “compassionate grounds” were required to use visitor toilets on the ground floor only – and to ensure that they washed their hands throughly after using the facilities. “Wash hands with soap and water following use of toilets.” An additional warning was issued regarding the ineffectiveness of quick fix hand hygiene alternatives.
“Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water – do not rely on hand gel, as this will not kill the virus.”