Warning as norovirus outbreaks begin to strike – the 6 signs you need to know
AS the cold winter weather continues, experts have warned that norovirus outbreaks could begin to plague care homes and educational settings.
Cases of the so-called 'winter vomiting bug' have started to creep into some areas of society, so it's key that you know the signs to look out for as the virus can produce debilitating symptoms.
Cases of norovirus have declined in recent weeks and are lower than pre-Covid levels, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has found.
Throughout the most recent norovirus season, the UKHSA said the majority of outbreaks have been in educational settings.
Cases have remained much lower in hospitals.
Norovirus easily spreads around public places and is transmitted when a tiny particle of vomit or poo from an infected person gets into someone else’s mouth.
That sounds a bit gross and unlikely but it can happen – in particular when you touch a contaminated surface and then put your hand in your mouth - or if you eat food which has been contaminated.
You can also catch it if you are in close proximity to an infected person and they breathe on you.
Most read in Health
Dr Lesley Larkin, Surveillance Lead, Gastrointestinal Infections and Food Safety for the UKHSA said: “Although at lower levels than before the pandemic, norovirus outbreaks continue to be reported in care home settings, so we encourage all those visiting loved ones to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of norovirus infection.
"This includes hand washing with soap and warm water regularly and thoroughly, especially after using the toilet or an episode of illness and before eating or preparing food."
Dr Larkin explained that norovirus can cause dehydration, especially in older people and children.
She added: "If you do get ill, drink plenty of fluids during that time."
What are the signs of norovirus you need to know
, you are likely to have caught norovirus if you experience a sudden sick feeling, projectile vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
The main symptoms are:
- Being sick (vomiting)
- Feeling sick (nausea)
- Diarrhoea
- A high temperature
- A headache
- Aching arms and legs
The first three symptoms are the most common, with other people also experiencing a high temperature, headache and aching limbs.
Dr Larkin said: "Those experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting should not return to work or send unwell children to school until at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared and ideally should also not prepare food during this time either.
"We advise people with symptoms to avoid visiting GP surgeries and hospitals, however if they are concerned they should talk to their GP by phone or contact NHS 111 or visit the NHS choices .”