The bug spreads easily through communities and outbreaks are common in settings where individuals have close contact
The bug spreads easily through communities and outbreaks are common in settings where individuals have close contact
The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows norovirus cases have increased 61.1% in the last two weeks. There has been a significant rise in cases in adults aged 65 and over, and outbreaks in hospital settings have increased too.
The stomach bug causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can be very unpleasant, but it usually gets better in about two days. The bug spreads easily through communities and outbreaks are common in settings where individuals have close contact such as hospitals, care homes, schools and nurseries.
Data from the World Health Organisation suggested an estimated 685 million cases of norovirus are seen annually, including 200 million cases among children under the age of five. The health organisation said the virus causes an estimated 200,000 deaths per year, including 50,000 child deaths.
To help reduce the spread, people are urged to make sure they practice good hygiene. UKHSA said: “Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so washing hands regularly with warm soapy water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces are the best steps people can take to protect themselves and reduce the chance of further spread.”
Amy Douglas, Lead Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “This increase is in line with what we expected following Christmas, and we are now seeing hospital outbreaks begin to climb as well.
She added: “If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, don’t return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either. I
“If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection to those most vulnerable.”
Although it’s sometimes called the winter vomiting bug, you can get norovirus at any time of year. According to the NHS, the main symptoms of norovirus start suddenly and may include:
– feeling sick
– being sick (vomiting)
– diarrhoea
You may also have:
– a high temperature
– a headache
– tummy pain
– body aches and pains
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