There is no cure – good hygiene is the only way to limit the spread of illness
Guidance for key Early Years staff has been made available by NHS Choices and The Food Standards Agency, warning of the dangers that norovirus (known as the “winter vomiting bug”) poses and how to reduced the level of risk to children and staff in preschool and nursery facilities.
Norovirus is “highly contagious” warns the Norovirus schools guide for early years professionals. “It’s particularly prevalent in schools and nurseries as the virus can survive for several days on surfaces or objects.”
And there is no cure for this extremely unpleasant illness: once contracted it must be left to run its course says the guidance.
There are reportedly at least 25 different strains of norovirus that pose a risk to children and adults alike, which apparently means that “we don’t develop immunity to it” because there are so many variations.
Worryingly, between 600,000 and a million people are reckoned to catch norovirus annually in the UK alone says the article.
Preschool boy washing hands with KiddiWash portable handwash unit
There is some good news – handwashing!
There is an effective way to limit the spread of the illness – by thorough and regular hand washing with good old soap and water.
Parents, carers and Early Years personnel staff are urged to supervise and encourage the activity by
“washing hands frequently with household soap, and encouraging children to do the same –
especially after going to the toilet.”
And there is one other very important message when it comes to norovirus – hand gels are not effective against it.
An infographic provided as part of the guidance states the effectiveness of thorough handwashing.
“Washing hands frequently and thoroughly helps limit the spread of the virus.”
Norovirus schools guide for early years professionals »
Portable hand wash units for children can be used both indoors and out!
The Kiddiwash range of warm water hand wash units are perfect for smaller hands – and are ideal where a portable solution is required.
Whether you require a larger wheeled unit such as the KiddiSynk, or the ultra portable Kiddiwash Xtra, you can ensure that all children in your care are able to wash their hands whether inside or out.
Hand washing – the most important lesson a child can learn!
Hand washing with soap and water is an essential lifelong skill.
With this video, children in your care can learn the ten simple steps that show how to wash hands effectively.
