Innovative pilot project to help reduce complications of norovirus in Wakefield care homes this winter

From left to right. Top row: Amy Backhouse (Mid Yorks community nursing), Clair Baker (Mid Yorks community nursing), Kasia Gruszynska (Castleford Lodge), Nicola Beach (Castleford Lodge), Rebecca Watson (Mid Yorks community nursing), Brooke Limbert (Castleford Lodge), Elaine Beedle (Castleford Lodge).

Bottom row - Castleford Lodge residents: Dorothy Jones, Denis Compton, Mary Sherwood, Stephen Thackray, Alan Varley and Princess Baldwin.

Partnership working is at the forefront in Wakefield as healthcare partners have come together to introduce a pilot project for care home residents with symptoms of norovirus.

The pilot involves the administration of hydrating fluids called ‘subcutaneous fluids’ to assist in the prevention of dehydration, caused by the symptoms of the virus. Elderly people are more susceptible to complications caused by norovirus which can lead to significant health concerns such as dehydration, which can require hospital admission. This approach will enable care home residents to stay in their familiar surroundings with the staff they know.

Norovirus causes gastroenteritis and is highly infectious and easily transmitted through contact with infected people and is common in hospitals and care homes, especially during winter.

The initiative is a result of the collective efforts of healthcare professionals from NHS England, Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), Wakefield Council, West Yorkshire Community Health Services Provider Collaborative, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield Virtual Ward programme. It includes physicians, nurses, and caregivers all working in together to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable individuals.

Len Richards, Chief Executive at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, said:

The introduction of the subcutaneous fluids pilot is a pivotal step in assisting in preventing hospital admissions and long stays for elderly patients. By utilizing the virtual ward and adult community nursing services, we're making sure our patients can recover in comfort and safety, in the place they call home. It's a transformative approach that prioritises both effective care and the wellbeing of those we serve.

The project commenced on Friday 1 December, with over ten care homes in Wakefield actively participating in the pilot which will continue until 31 March 2024.

Emma Smith, Head of Health Protection at Wakefield Council said:

I am pleased that the Wakefield Local Authority Community IPC team have had the opportunity to work alongside Wakefield ICB and Mid Yorkshire Teaching Trust colleagues to implement this important project. It is a vital measure in safeguarding the health of our elderly and vulnerable population, reducing their risk of norovirus complications. This proactive approach ensures they stay safe and well, minimising the impact of this virus on those we are dedicated to protecting.

To find out more about the symptoms of norovirus visit NHS online, or the Gov.UK website .