The UK Health Security Agency has issued a norovirus alert and said anyone showing symptoms should stay home to prevent further spread.
An average of 678 adult hospital beds were filled last week by people with diarrhoea and vomiting or norovirus-like symptoms, NHS data shows. This is up 45% from 468 beds the previous week and is just below the peak of 688 beds reached at the end of January, which was the highest figure this winter.
Norovirus is the most common infectious cause of vomiting and diarrhoea. It spreads easily through contact with someone who has the virus or with contaminated surfaces.
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While most people make a full recovery within two or three days, the virus can lead to dehydration, especially among the very young, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems. Amy Douglas, norovirus epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “Reports of norovirus have fluctuated over the last month but still remain high.
“If you have got diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not 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 in these settings.
“Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus, so don’t rely on these alone.”
Known for causing gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, norovirus presents with symptoms such as nausea, sudden and profuse vomiting, watery diarrhoea, and potentially severe stomach cramps.
Low-Grade Fever: Some individuals may experience a slight fever, reports Wales Online.
Muscle Pain: Generalized body aches or muscle pain can occur, although it is less common.
Fatigue: The infection can lead to a feeling of overall weakness and tiredness.
Headache: Some individuals may experience a headache during the course of the infection.
Symptoms usually develop 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and typically last for 1 to 3 days. In some cases, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, symptoms can be more severe and last longer.
Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and proper food handling, are crucial in preventing the spread of norovirus.
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