A norovirus gastroenteritis epidemic in a long-term-care facility

In Victoria, Australia, from July to December 2002, 126 outbreaks of viral and suspected viral gastroenteritis were reported in healthcare institutions. Norovirus was found to account for at least 77 of the 126 outbreaks.

In October 2002, the infection control unit investigated an outbreak of acute gastroenteritis on three wards in a 500-bed, long-term-care facility in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Cohorting and other infection control measures were initiated.

The outbreak was controlled 32 days after the first symptoms of acute gastroenteritis were identified. Fifty-two patients and 11 staff members were affected. Norovirus genotype 2 was detected on two of the three wards. Norovirus was not isolated in the third ward but was suspected to be the causative organism.

Outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis can cause significant morbidity in a long-term-care facility, affecting both patients and staff. In addition, the transmission of viral pathogens can be well established before there is recognition of an outbreak.