Staying One Step Ahead of Norovirus: Essential Strategies for Prevention and Control 

Rentokil Specialist Hygiene provides expert tips on preventing Norovirus and controlling outbreaks

As winter weather conditions persist across the UK, norovirus, commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug,’ continues to impact the country. Recent data from NHS England shows that on average 1,160 patients a day were in hospital with Norovirus during the week beginning 10 February 2025 – a 22 per cent surge on the previous week (948) and more than double the same period last year (509).

This highly contagious virus is responsible for many stomach bugs nationwide, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. Most individuals recover within a few days, however, for vulnerable individuals – babies, older people and those with existing health problems – it can be more serious. Stringent hygiene practices and thorough cleaning protocols are needed to contain its spread.

The Stealthy Spread of Norovirus

Norovirus can spread quickly in environments where people are close to one another, making schools, hospitals, care homes, cruise ships, and restaurants all hotspots for outbreaks. The virus can survive on surfaces for several days, allowing it to infect unsuspecting individuals who touch contaminated objects or surfaces.

There is no curative treatment for norovirus, you just have to let it run its course. This means that prevention is the most effective strategy to combat its spread. The virus is passed through direct contact with infected individuals, contaminated food or water, or via cross contamination from touching surfaces exposed to the virus. This high level of contagiousness means that outbreaks can quickly spiral out of control.

Effective Prevention Tactics

• Hand Hygiene
  Handwashing remains one of the most effective methods in preventing norovirus infection. However, not all hand sanitisation methods are equally effective. 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. This practice is especially important after using the toilet, before eating or preparing food and following contact with someone who is ill.
• Surface Disinfection
  Surfaces contaminated with norovirus can remain infectious for days, so regular disinfection is essential. High-touch areas such as door handles, light switches, and shared equipment should be cleaned frequently with chlorine bleach-based cleaners, as these are most effective against the virus.
• Food Handling
  Norovirus can also be spread via contaminated food, particularly raw produce, shellfish, and ready-to-eat meals handled by an infected person. Proper food preparation techniques, including thorough washing of fruits and vegetables and safe food handling practices, can help reduce the risk of foodborne outbreaks.
• Laundry Protocols
  Norovirus particles can cling to fabrics, making it essential to wash bedding, towels, and clothing used by infected individuals as soon as possible. To kill the virus effectively, wash items at a high temperature (at least 60°C) with detergent. Avoid shaking contaminated fabrics, as this can release viral particles into the air and increase the potential for infection.
• Staying Home
  It’s essential for anyone displaying symptoms of norovirus to stay at home for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have subsided. This reduces the risk of spreading the virus, particularly in workplaces, schools, and healthcare settings where outbreaks can escalate rapidly.

Responding to an Outbreak: Swift and Decisive Action

In the event of a Norovirus outbreak, timely intervention is crucial to prevent further spread. Key actions include:

• Minimising contact between infected individuals and others to limit the spread.
• Increasing the frequency and intensity of cleaning, especially in high-contact areas.
• Specialist disinfection to ensure thorough decontamination and effective elimination of the virus.
• Maintaining heightened hygiene practices even after symptoms have subsided to help prevent reinfection.

Rentokil Specialist Hygiene offers industry-leading infection control services to help maintain a safe and hygienic environment.