Knowledge · Norovirus
Norovirus
Safe surface hygiene for outbreak control.
Noroviruses are among the most common causes of gastrointestinal infections. They are characterised by high environmental stability and a very low infectious dose.
Why noroviruses are particularly problematic
High environmental stability
Noroviruses can remain infectious on surfaces for extended periods.
Low infectious dose
Just a few virus particles can cause infections.
Rapid outbreak dynamics
Norovirus can spread quickly in facilities.
Contact transmission
Contaminated hands and surfaces are central transmission routes.
How noroviruses are transmitted
Key contact surfaces
Properties disinfectants must fulfil
Disinfectants with appropriate virucidal efficacy are required for controlling norovirus outbreaks. KRINKO emphasises that not only regulatory minimum requirements are decisive, but also an application-related assessment of efficacy.
Virucidal efficacy
Efficacy against non-enveloped viruses.
Rapid action
Practical contact times.
Material compatibility
Suitable for medical surfaces.
Practical applicability
Safe use in daily practice.
Limitations of traditional active agent systems
Traditional active agent groups have been used for many years but have certain practical limitations.
QACs
Alcohol
Amine-based systems
Modern active agents for safe surface disinfection
Hydrogen peroxide
Modern oxidative disinfection principle.
Organic carboxylic acids
Carboxylic acids offer interesting properties for modern disinfection concepts.
Surface disinfection during outbreaks
KRINKO Recommendation 2022
Requirements for hygiene in the cleaning and disinfection of surfaces – recommendation by the Commission for Hospital Hygiene and Infection Prevention (KRINKO).
Learn more about surface hygiene
Discover further information on disinfection processes and modern hygiene solutions.