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“Stringent hygiene practices” needed to control norovirus says report
Mar
Alcohol-based sanitisers don’t work – handwashing does!
Many people will be aware of the impact of norovirus so far this year across the country. The so-called “winter vomiting bug” is a very unpleasant illness which individuals can suffer from on more than one occasion. And so far, 2025 seems to be bringing to light an alarming number of cases across the UK and elsewhere, according to a recent report on the Facilities Management Magazine (FM) website.
The article reveals that NHS England released figures showing that, during the week beginning 10th February, 1,160 patients a day were in hospital on average. This was apparently double the number of norovirus admissions when compared to the same period in the previous year.
Whereas most people recover fully after a couple of (very unpleasant) days, more vulnerable individuals, such as those with existing conditions, young babies and older people, can be more at risk, says the report.
How to reduce the norovirus risk
Because there is no treatment for norovirus, “you just have to let it run its course” writes FM. The best that you can do in any medical facility or office situation is to be diligent with your approach to hygiene.
“Stringent hygiene practices and thorough cleaning protocols are needed to contain its spread.”
Hand hygiene is crucial – but not with gels!
The virus can remain viable on surfaces for several days, says the article. Surfaces which hands can come into contact with on a regular basis. Which means that removing germs from your hands at key times is the key.
And that’s the whole point of effective hand hygiene when it comes to norovirus it seems. In short, you can’t kill the virus with alcohol gels – they’re largely ineffective.
Which means that the method that works best – in fact the only effective method – is to physically remove the virus by good old fashioned hand washing. Plenty of soap and water, brisk rubbing using plenty of soap for at least 20 seconds. Ideally followed by an enthusiastically robust drying of the hands using paper towels.
“Handwashing remains one of the most effective methods in preventing norovirus infection” say the FM report.
And they emphasise how inappropriate gels are for this.
“Alcohol-based sanitisers are not very effective against norovirus, making thorough handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds the gold standard.”
And, the article states, washing at the right times is particularly important – especially before eating or handling food and after going to the toilet.
The range of Teal mobile hand washing units
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