As winter approaches, the healthcare system in the UK braces for the pressures that come with colder months—commonly referred to as “winter pressures.” This season, the NHS is preparing for a surge in cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV, but one virus that often flies under the radar in these discussions is norovirus, a highly contagious pathogen that causes severe gastrointestinal illness. With nearly 18,000 flu-related deaths reported in the past two winters alone, and with norovirus adding to the burden, it’s clear that infection control measures and vaccinations are more critical than ever.

The NHS has launched a widespread vaccination campaign to ensure vulnerable groups, including older adults, those with long-term health conditions, and pregnant women, are protected against flu, COVID-19, and RSV this winter. With flu season typically peaking in December and January, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to avoid serious illness and reduce hospitalisations. The importance of getting vaccinated can’t be overstated, especially given the unpredictable nature of respiratory viruses and their potential to overwhelm healthcare systems.

Get vaccinated. Get boosted. Get protected.

nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

While vaccinations provide a robust defence against respiratory illnesses, norovirus presents a different challenge. Often called the 'winter vomiting bug,' norovirus is highly infectious and can spread rapidly, particularly in settings like hospitals and care homes. Crucially, alcohol-based hand sanitisers—widely used in healthcare—are ineffective against norovirus, which makes proper hand hygiene practices even more critical during the winter season.

Unlike traditional alcohol-based sanitisers, Spectricept™ CARE+ HAND is alcohol-free and proven to kill pathogens like norovirus and C.difficile in just 15 seconds. This superior antimicrobial efficacy makes it an ideal choice for healthcare settings, particularly during the heightened winter months when infections spike. Beyond its ability to fight dangerous pathogens, Spectricept™ CARE+ HAND is also:

• Gentle on skin, reducing issues like contact dermatitis often caused by frequent sanitiser use.
• Eco-friendly, with a 68.3% lower carbon footprint compared to alcohol-based alternatives.
• Safe and non-flammable, making it a better option for environments where safety and sustainability are priorities.

With 'winter pressures' and norovirus cases on the rise, using the right hygiene solutions is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy environment. Hospitals and care settings that adopt Spectricept™ CARE+ HAND will benefit from better hand hygiene compliance and lower rates of infection, which not only protects healthcare workers but also improves patient outcomes.