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.

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."