Rhinovirus

Please click the frequently asked questions below for further information and IPC precautions required:

• What is Rhinovirus?

  Rhinovirus is primarily associated with upper respiratory tract infection, otitis media, and sinusitis. It is the most common cause of common cold worldwide.

• How does it spread?

  Rhinovirus is usually spread from an infected person to others through:

  • close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
  • droplets by coughing and sneezing
  • touching an object or surface with Rhinovirus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands
• What are the symptoms of Rhinovirus?

  The main symptoms may include:

  • Nasal congestion or discharge
  • Sore or scratchy throat
  • Cough

  In addition, children can also have fever during the first 2 to 3 days and moderate enlargement of the anterior cervical nodes.

• Why is this important?

  If NIAS staff are aware that the patient has a suspected or confirmed case this should be communicated to the Control Room (Emergency or Non-emergency as appropriate) and the staff in the receiving unit when transferring the patient to ensure effective patient care and management.

• IPC Precautions
  • Droplet precautions should be used until the patient is 24 hours asymptomatic.
  • Hand Hygiene should be completed as per the 5 moments in line with usual practice.
  • Eye protection should be risk assessed for any concern regarding a splash risk.
  • A Fluid Resistant Surgical Mask should be worn.
  • Gloves and Aprons should be worn.
  • The patient should be transported via ambulance with no other patients present and asked to wear a FRSM if tolerated and it does not interfere with their treatment.
  • Laundry should be treated as contaminated, placed into an alginate bag and placed into a red laundry bag.
• What cleaning is required?

  All equipment and the ambulance should have an in-between patient clean paying particular attention to touch points.

• Do staff need prophylaxis or follow up?

  Staff should remain vigilant for symptoms but there is no follow up required and staff do not need to be off work.