Norovirus in care homes is a growing concern, with recent reports showing a sharp increase in outbreaks across the UK. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), norovirus cases in early 2025 were 29% higher than usual, with the majority occurring in care homes. Given the highly contagious nature of this virus, care home owners and managers must take proactive steps to prevent and control infections.

Understanding norovirus, recognising symptoms in elderly residents, and implementing effective infection control and hand hygiene training courses are essential to reducing the spread and ensuring the safety of both residents and staff. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Norovirus, and Why Is It Dangerous for Care Homes?

Norovirus is a highly infectious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and nausea. It spreads rapidly in communal settings like care homes, where residents live in close proximity and share common areas. The virus is particularly dangerous for elderly residents, who are at higher risk of severe dehydration and hospitalisation.

Norovirus Symptoms in Elderly Residents: What to Watch For

Elderly residents often experience more severe symptoms than younger individuals. Key signs to monitor include:

• Severe or prolonged diarrhoea and vomiting
• Dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, reduced urination)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever and body aches

Given that dehydration can be life-threatening for older adults, early detection and response are critical. Care staff should be trained to spot these symptoms quickly and take immediate action.

How Does Norovirus Spread in Care Homes?

Norovirus spreads through:

• Contaminated Surfaces: The virus can survive on surfaces for days, infecting residents and staff who touch them.
• Person-to-Person Contact: Close interactions between staff and residents increase transmission risk.
• Food and Water Contamination: Poor hygiene during food preparation can spread the virus to multiple residents quickly.

Understanding these transmission routes is the first step in implementing effective infection control measures.

Infection Control Strategies: How to Protect Your Care Home

1. Implement Infection Control Training Courses for Staff

Training staff in infection prevention is one of the most effective ways to stop outbreaks before they start. Infection control training courses teach care home teams:

• Proper handwashing techniques and PPE use
• Best practices for cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces
• How to isolate infected residents and prevent further spread
• Strategies for food safety and hygiene

Regular training ensures staff remain up to date with the latest infection control protocols.

2. Enforce Strict Hand Hygiene Protocols

Handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent norovirus in care homes. Staff and residents should wash their hands:

• Before and after meals
• After using the toilet
• Before and after resident care activities

Using hand sanitisers with at least 70% alcohol can further reduce the spread of the virus.

3. Strengthen Cleaning and Disinfection Practices

High-touch surfaces, such as door handles, bed rails, and communal dining areas, should be disinfected multiple times daily. Use cleaning products proven to kill norovirus and follow best practices for waste disposal.

Managing an Outbreak: What to Do if Norovirus Spreads

Even with strong preventive measures, outbreaks can still occur. Here’s how care homes should respond:

1. Isolate Infected Residents Immediately

Residents showing norovirus symptoms should be separated from others to limit transmission. Staff should use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for infected individuals.

2. Communicate With Staff, Residents, and Families

Transparent communication is crucial. Inform staff and families about the outbreak and the steps being taken to contain it. Provide clear guidance on hygiene practices and visitation restrictions if necessary.

3. Report the Outbreak to Health Authorities

UK care homes are required to report norovirus outbreaks to local health authorities. Timely reporting ensures access to additional guidance and support to manage the situation effectively.

Preventing Norovirus in Care Homes: Long-Term Strategies 

1. Encourage Vaccinations and Immune Support

Although there is no specific vaccine for norovirus, ensuring residents receive flu and other recommended vaccinations can help boost overall immunity and reduce vulnerability to infections.

2. Review and Update Infection Control Policies

Regularly assess infection control policies to ensure they align with the latest health regulations and best practices. Conduct annual staff training sessions and drills to maintain preparedness.

3. Invest in Infection Control Training Courses

Ongoing education for staff is essential. Enrolling care teams in infection control training courses ensures they remain knowledgeable about the latest techniques for preventing and managing outbreaks.

Recommended Read: Encouraging Infection Control Training in Care Homes

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Care Home from Norovirus

Norovirus in care homes presents a serious risk to residents and staff. By recognising norovirus symptoms in elderly individuals, implementing strict hygiene measures, and investing in infection control training courses, care home managers can reduce the risk of outbreaks and protect their communities.

Taking proactive steps today can prevent severe disruptions tomorrow. Ensure your care home is equipped with the right knowledge and tools by enrolling staff in CPD certified courses. At ecert, you can choose from popular courses on infection control training, hand hygiene training, and coronavirus training to ensure your staff is well-equipped to manage the ourbreak of infectious diseases.