"do not visit your GP or hospital while symptomatic"
The NHS saw an increase in highly contagious norovirus in the week beginning November 11, 2024.
Norovirus, known as the “winter vomiting bug”, is a stomach bug that primarily causes vomiting and diarrhoea.
The winter bug is easily transmitted through contact with people with the infection.
Another way norovirus is easily transmitted is through contact with surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the virus.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned about the need to keep children off school and for adults to call in sick to work if symptoms manifest.
Symptoms include sudden onset of nausea, projectile vomiting and diarrhoea. However, symptoms can also include a high temperature, headache, abdominal pain and aching limbs.
The symptoms start suddenly within one to three days of being infected.
Most cases of norovirus can be treated at home. The most important thing is to rest and have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.
UKHSA advised: “Do not return to work or send children to school until 48 hours after the symptoms have stopped and do not visit your GP or hospital while symptomatic.
“If you are concerned about your symptoms, talk to your GP by phone, contact NHS 111 or head to the NHS website.”
Dr Richard Pebody, Director of Clinical and Emerging Infections at UKHSA, stated:
“As children return to school after the half-term holidays, it’s important that they get off to the best start possible ahead of winter.
“Staying healthy and taking simple steps to reduce the spread of illness will ensure children and their families experience less disruption at this important time of year.
“Each winter, we see an increase in acute respiratory and gastro-intestinal illnesses.”
“However, it only takes simple steps to reduce the spread of most of these infections.
“By following advice on good hygiene habits, knowing when to keep your child off school and taking up the opportunity to get vaccinated, parents are protecting their children and the wider school community.”
The UKHSA reported 447 cases of norovirus in England from October 14 to 27, 2024, marking a 16% increase from the previous two weeks.
While #norovirus cases remain high, there are some simple steps you can take to avoid spreading the infection:
? Stay home for 48 hrs after symptoms clear
? Wash hands with soap & warm water
? Don’t prepare food for othersMore info & advice:https://t.co/NNxOApBysc pic.twitter.com/deUfjWSi3Z
— UKHSA South West (@UKHSA_SouthWest) November 12, 2024
Good hand hygiene is key to preventing norovirus from spreading as is staying home.
Loading ...