Patients contract norovirus from hospital visitors

Herefordshire – “strict” infection control measures in place

There have been a number of norovirus outbreaks in the Herefordshire area, some of which have forced the closure of three wards at Wye Valley NHS Trust, according to a recent report on the Ross Gazette website.

These – and other outbreaks in the county – have been attributed to the fact that patients have contracted the illness from visitors.

“Each hospital patient case of norovirus has been investigated by the Trust and the outbreaks have been linked to visitors who attended hospital whilst contagious with the virus.”

It is essential that patients follow hand hygiene requests, something that hasn’t happened in these cases, according to Alison Johnson, consultant microbiologist at Wye Valley NHS Trust, who is quoted as saying

“We have identified a link between the Norovirus outbreaks in our hospitals during March and April this year, which could have been prevented if these visitors had followed our infection control measures.”

The article emphasises the importance of effective hand hygiene.

“Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water, particularly after using the toilet, and before preparing food.”

“Norovirus, which causes diarrhoea and vomiting, is one of the most common stomach bugs in the UK. It’s also called the “winter vomiting bug” because it’s more common in winter, although you can catch it at any time of the year” according to NHS choices.

Hand washing with soap and water at the point of need – perfect for patients and visitors!

Portable hot water hand washing for healthcare situations – the TEAL Stop n’Wash is entirely self contained and needs no mains water service or drainage connections.

Hot water hand wash hire for UK medical emergencies

Introducing the TEAL Task Force

TEAL Task Force staff provide a rapid deployment and installation service for the class-leading Teal Stop n’Wash portable hand washing station to medical facilities. Setup and training is provided for on-site staff as part of the service.

The TEAL Stop n’Wash

The synchronised display takes users through the automatic TEAL Stop n’Wash programme and 7 rubbing actions as laid down on the National Health Service Guidelines “Hand-washing technique with soap and water.”

The Stop n’Wash is available to hire for all manner of medical requirements, such as during building work and maintenance, the outbreak of illnesses such as norovirus – or to help educate staff and visitors about washing with soap and water during hand washing campaigns.