The Salt Lake County Health Department has seen a recent increase in norovirus activity and is asking schools to be proactive in their approach to prevention and their response to cases of illness.
The most effective approach is four-pronged:
Hand Washing: Remind staff and students to engage in frequent, thorough, hand washing.
- Wash hands regularly
- Washing with soap and warm water, and physically scrub for at least 20 seconds.
- Hand sanitizers are not an adequate replacement for proper hand washing with soap and warm water. Use in addition to hand washing.
Cleaning & Disinfecting: Standard cleaning and use of effective disinfecting practices are sufficient to remove or kill viruses.
Protect Yourself: “If it’s wet and it’s not yours, don’t touch it!” When cleaning areas soiled by vomit or diarrhea, custodial staff should wear protective equipment and follow universal precautions.
Stay Home: When Ill: Keep ill students and staff home from work and school for the duration of their illness.
Attached is a PDF file you may use to encourage proper protection against the spread of illness.
