NOROVIRUS ADVICE LETTER WINTER 2017-2018

In recent years we have seen a large number of Norovirus outbreaks in schools and nurseries during the winter months and these have caused service disruption, cancellation of activities like nativity plays and trips, staff shortages, school closures and many pupils being absent from class. Since the summer holidays in 2017 we have seen 5 schools affected.

Norovirus is very infectious and high numbers of children and staff can be affected at once. The symptoms of norovirus include sudden onset of nausea followed by projectile vomiting and/or diarrhoea and usually last 12 to 60 hours. A person can become infected as a result of contact with an infectious case, contact with a surface contaminated with the virus or ingesting contaminated food or drink.

We would like to remind you of the importance of being prepared and vigilant for norovirus outbreaks as prompt action prevents spread of the virus and reduces the number of people becoming ill. You may wish to ensure that you have an outbreak plan in place and practise how you would deal with an outbreak.

We would also like to remind all parents/carers that it is West Lothian Council policy that children should not attend school for a minimum of 48 hours from their last sickness or diarrhoea. All schools have been asked to be vigilant about this policy.