Norovirus Cases Up 60%: Symptoms And Prevention As UKHSA Issues Warning

Norovirus cases have surged by a staggering 60% in the past fortnight, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned.

The virus is a nasty one, causing sudden symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea, as well as a high temperature, headache, stomach pain or other aches and pains.

Amy Douglas, lead epidemiologist at UKHSA, said the virus is continuing to rise, particularly among people aged 65 and over.

“This increase is in line with what we expected following Christmas, and we are now seeing hospital outbreaks begin to climb as well,” she said.

While this is grim news indeed, there is a small glimmer of hope as flu, Covid-19 and RSV levels continue to fall.

To try and steer clear of the vomiting bug, UKHSA is urging people to wash hangs regularly with warm soapy water. It also cautioned that alcohol hand gels don’t kill norovirus.

If someone in your household catches it, the NHS advises washing clothes and bedding that has poo or vomit on it on a 60°C wash, separately from other laundry.

Clean toilet seats, flush handles, taps and bathroom door handles regularly. The UKHSA suggests using bleach-based products to clean surfaces, where possible.

Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing, serving or eating food. It’s best to avoid eating food prepared by someone who’s had the winter vomiting bug.

UKHSA’s Amy Douglas said: “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.

“If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection to those most vulnerable.”

Norovirus usually passes in two to three days. It’s best to stay hydrated as much as possible to avoid dehydration and get plenty of rest. If you’re in discomfort, paracetamol might also help.