Abstract
An outbreak of norovirus infections, affecting 16 patients and five nurses, occurred on two wards in our hospital. The infections developed coincidently in multiple rooms on the wards. An epidemiological study suggested that the norovirus had been first introduced into the south ward and then spread to the main ward via a contaminated communal toilet equipped for patients in wheelchairs. Accordingly, we implemented a program of thorough cleaning and disinfection using sodium hypochlorite throughout the ward environment, including the communal toilets, and promoting hand hygiene after using the toilet among inpatients. Following this intervention, the outbreak swiftly ceased. We recommend that wearing personal protective equipment and isolating infected patients in private rooms, as well as cleaning and disinfecting the environment, including communal toilets, are essential actions during norovirus outbreaks.
