Media Release: GRDM’s Bitou EHPs and Kurland Clinic Staff Host Norovirus and Health & Hygiene Awareness Session

For immediate release
05 February 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Bitou Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP), in collaboration with the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health’s nursing staff at Kurland Clinic, recently conducted an informative awareness session on the Norovirus.

Stakeholders also focused on informing community members about the critical importance of health and hygiene practices.

The team provided comprehensive insights into the symptoms and effects of the virus, preventive measures to curb its spread, proper health and hygiene practices, symptom management, and recognizing signs of dehydration with appropriate responses. The heightened need for vigilance during peak seasons when Norovirus cases typically surge, was also raised.

In the second part of the program, the GRDM team conducted a step-by-step demonstration of proper handwashing techniques, highlighting that handwashing remains the most effective method to prevent the spread of Norovirus. They also demonstrated how to prepare a Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS), explaining its crucial role in preventing dehydration. The importance of staying hydrated was repeatedly stressed, with the team noting that “early hydration is critical to managing symptoms and preventing severe dehydration.” Participants were advised to seek immediate medical assistance if symptoms persisted.

Throughout the session, it became clear to attendees that hand hygiene plays a vital role in breaking the transmission chain of Norovirus.

Participants expressed a heightened understanding of Norovirus, the significance of proper handwashing, and the preparation and use of the SSS. They also gained valuable knowledge on managing hydration effectively. The session was interactive, with many questions from the attendees, and was well-received by all.

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a type of viral gastroenteritis causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines.

Symptoms

• Nausea; vomiting, and
• diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

How Norovirus spread

• Contaminated food,
• water,
• surfaces, and
• person-to-person contact.

Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS):

• Mix 1 liter of clean water with 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
• Sip slowly throughout the day.

Should anyone develop symptoms, they are reminded to stay well hydrated

• Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, and dizziness.
• In cases of severe dehydration, seek immediate medical attention.
• Encouraged caregivers to watch for symptoms in vulnerable individuals, such as children and the elderly.

ENDS