The sickness bug, which is ‘unpleasant for everyone’, can be made worse if people ignore advice
People have been reminded of an important piece of advice when they’re dealing with a common winter illness that is currently circulating throughout the UK. Ignoring this crucial part of the recovery process could make people feel significantly worse.
Recently, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued warnings about norovirus, also referred to as the ‘sick bug’, which is “unpleasant for everyone”. Reports that have been published online claim that there are rising numbers of cases across the UK so far this month.
According to the latest data, norovirus activity is rising in certain areas of the country. Whilst overall levels remain within typical seasonal ranges for the time being, lab reports reveal a 47% surge in the first fortnight of January compared to late December.
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is an illness that triggers vomiting and diarrhoea. It can prove to be “extremely unpleasant”, but it typically improves within a matter of days.
The UKHSA and NHS urge people to adhere to a stringent 48-hour rule if they have caught the virus. Health officials are asking people to stay home and avoid returning to work, school, or visiting hospitals and care homes until at least two days after symptoms have completely cleared.
The NHS also provides online guidance to help those battling the virus – including some of the “most important” measures people with the illness can take, reports the Mirror. “Diarrhoea and vomiting can usually be treated at home,” according to the NHS website. “The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.”
Contracting norovirus can set off a variety of symptoms, including diarrhoea and vomiting. This combination frequently causes people to quickly lose fluids and electrolytes, making it important to keep a glass or bottle of water close by during recovery.
If fluids aren’t replenished, dehydration can result in low blood pressure and kidney failure. In serious cases, particularly amongst the elderly or vulnerable (such as very young children), dehydration from norovirus can prove fatal.
How to treat norovirus at home
It’s extremely uncommon for someone with norovirus to require treatment that can’t be handled at home. In most circumstances, people should prioritise staying at home and resting, as this helps limit the spread of the illness and helps them to recover their energy.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or squash, taking small, frequent sips if this is causing nausea. The NHS also recommends that people attempt to eat where possible and “when they feel able to”, avoiding fatty or spicy foods which can make symptoms worse.
People might want to take paracetamol for any pain or discomfort. Following these straightforward steps should help most people feel better within a few days.
For people who are struggling with signs of dehydration (such as dark, smelly urine or urinating less than usual), a pharmacist could help. They might be able to recommend an oral rehydration powder that you mix with water to make a drink – which replenishes lost water and essential minerals more effectively than water alone.
